Insulated container

Abstract

An insulated container (700) having a base (702) and a lid (704) is provided. The lid may be rotated about the hinge from a closed configuration to an open configuration, and may be secured in the closed configuration via one or more latch devices (720). In some examples, the thermally insulated container also includes a handle assembly (760) having a telescopic three-stage arm configuration defined by a stowed configuration, a partially extended configuration, and a fully extended configuration. In other examples, the thermally insulated container further includes a wheel assembly (770) having a pair of wheels mounted with one or two shafts, and a wheel buttonhole (776) for absorbing vibrations and buffering the shafts. In yet other examples, the thermally insulated container further includes a drain plug assembly (780) located on the rear sidewall adjacent to the bottom portion of the base, the drain plug assembly including a main tube (782) matingly engaged with an outer tube (794) having a plurality of ratchet teeth (797) engaged with one or more ratchet keys (783) on the main tube.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 743,075, filed on May 12, 2022, entitled “Insulating Container.” This application is also related to U.S. application No. 17 / 533,238, entitled “Insulating Container,” filed on November 23, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. application No. 16 / 928,693, entitled “Insulating Container,” filed on July 14, 2020, and U.S. Patent No. 11,180,291, now issued on November 23, 2021. U.S. application No. 16 / 928,693 is a continuation of U.S. application No. 16 / 218,089, entitled “Insulating Container,” filed on December 12, 2018, and U.S. Patent No. 10,766,672, now issued on September 8, 2020. The entire contents of the above applications are expressly incorporated herein by reference for any and all non-limiting purposes. Background Art

[0003] Various types of containers are often used to store food or other items. In some examples, it may be advantageous to maintain the temperature of the contents stored in the container. Therefore, insulated containers may be used. However, some conventional insulated containers are often not very durable and lack appropriate means for securing the lid in a closed position. For example, some conventional insulated containers have lids that may be lost or damaged, handles that may protrude from the base portion of the container, and / or ineffective latches for securing the lid. In these examples, the lid, handles, and / or latches may be easily broken, which in some cases may render the insulated container almost useless. Summary of the invention

[0004] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] Insulated containers having various features are described herein. In some examples, the insulated container may include: a base; a lid hingedly attached to the base; and a handle assembly attached to the base. The base may include: a sidewall structure; a bottom portion connected to the sidewall structure; an opening formed at an end of the sidewall structure; and at least one latch device configured to secure the lid when the lid is in a closed position. The sidewall structure may have: a front sidewall; a rear sidewall opposite the front sidewall; and two lateral sidewalls between the front sidewall and the rear sidewall. The bottom portion may be connected to a first end of each sidewall of the sidewall structure, the bottom portion being configured to support the insulated container on a surface. The opening may be formed at a second end of each sidewall of the sidewall structure opposite the first end of each sidewall of the sidewall structure. The opening may be configured to allow access to an interior space of the insulated container formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion. The gasket may be configured to provide a watertight seal when the lid is in a closed and secured position. The handle assembly may be attached to the rear sidewall. The handle assembly may include a telescopic three-stage arm configuration defined by a first stage with the handle assembly in a stowed configuration, a second stage with the handle assembly in a partially extended configuration, and a third stage with the handle assembly in a fully extended configuration. The handle assembly may include an upper arm, a middle arm, and a lower arm. The upper arm may be nested within and slidable within the middle arm, and the middle arm may be nested within and slidable within the lower arm, thereby creating a telescopic three-stage arm configuration.

[0006] In other examples, the handle assembly can be attached to the rear side wall using one or more brackets. The one or more brackets can be U-shaped brackets that fit around the outer portion of the lower arm against the rear side wall. The handle assembly can also include one or more locking mechanisms, one or more locking mechanisms for locking the handle assembly in a stowed configuration and a fully extended configuration, the one or more locking mechanisms having an upper locking mechanism and a lower locking mechanism, the upper locking mechanism being between the upper arm and the middle arm, and the lower locking mechanism being between the middle arm and the lower arm. The handle assembly can also include a release button, the release button being located on the handle. The release button can be connected to the one or more locking mechanisms and actuates the one or more locking mechanisms to lock and release the handle assembly between the stowed configuration and the fully extended configuration. The handle assembly can include an extension arm overlap distance, the extension arm overlap distance being defined as the overlap distance between the nested arms when the upper arm, the middle arm, and the lower arm are in the fully extended configuration. The extension arm overlap distance can be approximately 70 mm. The handle assembly can include a handle having one or more handle buffers, the one or more handle buffers including a raised portion extending circumferentially around the handle. The insulated container may also include a corner locking bracket, the corner locking bracket including a container bracket, a lid bracket and a lock, the container bracket being attached to the base, and the lid bracket being attached to the lid. The container bracket may include a first lock hole, and the lid bracket may include a second lock hole. When the lid is in a closed and fixed position, the first lock hole and the second lock hole may match together, allowing the lock to be inserted into the first lock hole and the second lock hole. Further, at least one latch device may also include: a latch upper portion, wherein the latch upper portion is pivotally attached to the lid; and, a latch lower portion, wherein the latch lower portion is pivotally attached to the latch upper portion. The latch lower portion also includes an engagement tab, which is configured to engage a retainer. The latch lower portion may be formed of a first material, and the latch upper portion may be formed of a second material. The first material may be stiffer than the second material. The retainer may be positioned on the front side of the bottom portion of the insulated container.

[0007] These and various other features are more fully described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying figures, in which like references indicate similar elements, and in which:

[0009] Figure 1A and Figure 1B 2 are front and rear perspective views, respectively, of an insulated container according to one or more aspects described herein. Figure 1C is Figure 1A and Figure 1B A front perspective interior cross-sectional view of the insulated container depicted in FIG.

[0010] Figure 2AAccording to one or more aspects described herein, Figure 1A and Figure 1B A side view of an insulated container highlighting a carrying strap or carrying handle arrangement in which the strap or handle can be rotated from one side of the insulated container to the other via a handle pivot. Figure 2B According to one or more aspects described herein Figure 2A Deconstructed view of the handle pivot. Figure 2C is a front perspective view of another example handle pivot according to one or more aspects described herein. Figure 2D According to one or more aspects described herein Figure 2C Rear perspective view of the handlebar pivot shown in FIG.

[0011] Figure 3A is a front view of another example insulated container according to one or more aspects described herein. Figure 3B is a side view of another example insulated container according to one or more aspects described herein. Figure 3C is a rear view of another example insulated container according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0012] Figure 4A According to one or more aspects described herein FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C A top front view of an insulated container lid. Figure 4B According to one or more aspects described herein FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C Bottom front view of an insulated container.

[0013] Figure 5A A hinge arrangement is shown in which a lid can be rotated from a closed configuration to an open configuration according to one or more aspects described herein. Figure 5B is a perspective view of a disassembled cover with an exemplary gasket removed according to one or more aspects described herein. Figure 5C is a perspective view of a low profile over-center latch device or mechanism in an unsecured configuration according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0014] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C Front, perspective, and rear views of a latch or latching arrangement for securing a lid in a closed configuration are shown according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0015] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Front top and rear perspective views of another example insulated container according to one or more aspects described herein are shown with a lid removed and including a pressure regulating device in the back or rear side of the insulated container.

[0016] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8BAccording to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Various expanded views of the pressure regulating device for an insulated container are shown in FIG.

[0017] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B Various expanded views of a duckbill umbrella valve according to one or more aspects described herein are shown, the duckbill umbrella valve including a Fig. 8A To the pressure regulating device shown in Figure 8D.

[0018] Fig. 10A , Fig. 10B , Fig. 10C and Fig. 10D Front, side, rear, and side views of another insulated container according to one or more aspects described herein are shown.

[0019] Fig. 10E According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D A front perspective view of the insulated container is shown in FIG.

[0020] Fig.11 According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E A top perspective partial view of an insulated container is shown in , with the lid open.

[0021] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E Side views of an insulated container are shown showing the handle assembly in various stowed and extended configurations.

[0022] Fig.13 According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E A side view of an insulated container is shown in FIG. , wherein the insulated container is in an inclined configuration.

[0023] Fig.14 According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E A rear perspective view of an insulated container is shown in FIG. , showing the handle assembly in a stowed configuration.

[0024] Fig.15 According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E A top rear perspective view of an insulated container is shown in FIG. 1 with the lid open and the handle assembly in an extended configuration.

[0025] Fig.16A According to one or more aspects described herein, Fig.15 A side view of an insulated container is shown in FIG. , with the lid open and the handle assembly in an extended configuration. Fig. 16BAccording to one or more aspects described herein, Fig.16A Close-up side view of the handle assembly area and cover area of ​​the .

[0026] Fig.17A A side view of a pull handle assembly is shown in both a stowed position and an extended position according to one or more aspects described herein. Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C According to one or more aspects described herein, Fig.17A A close-up side view of the handle assembly area of ​​the .

[0027] Fig.18 A close-up perspective view of a handle bumper area of ​​a pull handle assembly is shown according to one or more aspects described herein.

[0028] Fig.19 According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E A bottom perspective view of the insulated container shown in FIG. 1 shows the wheel assembly.

[0029] Fig. 20A According to one or more aspects described herein, a method for FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E Rear cross-sectional view of the wheel and axle attachments of the insulated container shown in .

[0030] Fig. 20B According to one or more aspects described herein, a method for Fig. 20A Close-up rear cross-sectional view of the wheel and axle attachments of the insulated container shown in .

[0031] Fig.21 According to one or more aspects described herein, a method for FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E Rear cross-sectional view of the shaft attachment and anti-rotation mount of the insulated container shown in .

[0032] Fig. 22 According to one or more aspects described herein, a method for FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E A side cross-sectional view of the drain plug assembly of an insulated container is shown in FIG.

[0033] Fig.23 According to one or more aspects described herein, a method for FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E Exploded view of the drain plug assembly for the insulated container shown in .

[0034] Fig.24A , Fig. 24B , Fig.24C and Fig.24D Front, side, rear, and side views of another insulated container according to one or more aspects described herein are shown.

[0035] Fig.24E and Fig.24F According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 24A to FIG. 24D Top and bottom views of the insulated container shown in .

[0036] Figure 24G According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 24A to FIG. 24F A front perspective view of the insulated container is shown in FIG.

[0037] Fig.25 According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 24A to FIG. 24F A rear perspective view of an insulated container is shown in FIG. , showing the handle assembly in a stowed configuration.

[0038] Fig.26 According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 24A to FIG. 24F A rear top perspective view of the insulated container shown in FIG.

[0039] Fig.27A , Fig.27B and Fig.27C According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 24A to FIG. 24F Front view, rear view and side perspective view of the handle assembly of the insulated container shown in.

[0040] Fig.28 According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 24A to FIG. 24F A bottom perspective view of the insulated container shown in FIG. 1 shows the wheel assembly.

[0041] Fig.29A and Fig.29B According to one or more aspects described herein, a method for FIG. 24A to FIG. 24F A rear side view of the wheel assembly and anti-rotation mount of the insulated container shown in , with portions of the handle assembly removed.

[0042] Fig.29C According to one or more aspects described herein, a method for FIG. 24A to FIG. 24F Rear cross-sectional view of the shaft attachment and anti-rotation mount of the insulated container shown in .

[0043] Fig.30 According to one or more aspects described herein, FIG. 24A to FIG. 24F A side perspective view of the wheel recess on the insulated container is shown in FIG.

[0044] Fig.31 According to one or more aspects described herein, a method for FIG. 24A to FIG. 24G A side cross-sectional view of the drain plug assembly of an insulated container is shown in FIG.

[0045] Fig.32 According to one or more aspects described herein, a method for FIG. 24A to FIG. 24G Exploded view of the drain plug assembly for the insulated container shown in .

[0046] Fig.33 According to one or more aspects described herein, a method for FIG. 24A to FIG. 24G Another exploded view of the drain plug assembly for the insulated container is shown in FIG.

[0047] FIG. 34A to FIG. 34C An example corner bracket kit for an insulated container according to one or more aspects described herein is shown.

[0048] FIG. 35A to FIG. 35E An attachment for an insulated container according to one or more aspects described herein is shown.

[0049] FIG. 36A to FIG. 36C An exemplary welding process for use with an insulated container according to one or more aspects described herein is shown.

[0050] Further, it should be understood that the drawings may represent the proportions of different components of a single embodiment; however, the disclosed embodiments are not limited to such specific proportions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Some aspects of the present disclosure relate to insulated containers that are configured to store contents or a volume of liquid. In some examples, the insulated container may include a lid that can be locked or secured with at least one latch or at least one latching device, and the lid may be hinged to allow the lid to rotate from a closed position to an open position approximately 115° from the closed position, and / or can be non-destructively removed from a base portion of the insulated container (e.g., capable of being removed and replaced). Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container may include a pressure regulating device that helps vent the insulated container to prevent lid locking due to changes in pressure or temperature. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container may have a handle that is integrally formed in the base portion of the insulated container. These and various other features and aspects of the insulated container will be described more fully herein.

[0052] In the following description of various embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the various embodiments and in which are shown by way of illustration various embodiments in which some aspects of the present disclosure may be practiced. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 1A and Figure 1BA perspective view of an insulated container 100 is depicted. In one example, the insulated container 100 can include a base portion 102 and a lid 104, and in some examples, the lid 104 can be non-destructively removably coupled to the base portion 102. The base portion 102 can be an insulating structure that forms an interior space for containing contents or liquids, as will be discussed more fully herein. In some examples, the shape of the base portion 102 can be cubic or substantially cubic. In still other examples, the shape of the base portion 102 can be substantially cylindrical, or can have a substantially rectangular cross-section. Various other shapes can be used without departing from the invention.

[0054] The base portion 102 can include a first end 106 having a bottom surface 108. The bottom surface 108 can be configured to support the insulated container on a surface such as a table, the ground, a vehicle cargo bed, a boat deck, etc. The base portion 102 can also include a carrying handle or carrying strap 107. The carrying handle or carrying strap 107 can be connected to a handle pivot 109. In some examples, the insulated container is configured with multiple handle pivots 109. Each end of the handle or carrying strap 107 can be attached to a handle pivot 109 that allows the handle or carrying strap 107 to freely rotate from the front of the insulated container to the back of the insulated container. Figure 2A As shown, the handle 107 engages the handle pivot 109. The handle pivot 109 is configured to rotate approximately 240° and allows the handle 107 to rotate from the front of the insulated container 100 to the back of the insulated container 100. In another example, the handle 107 engages the handle pivot 109 and is configured to travel in an arc on the lid 104. In other examples, the handle pivot 109 is configured to travel at least 220°, 225°, 230°, 235°, 240°, 245°, or 250°. In other examples, the handle pivot 109 is configured to travel from approximately 220° to 240° of travel. In some examples, such as Figure 2BAs shown, the insert 109b is integrally formed in the base portion 102. The handle pivot 109 is configured to engage the insert 109b. The insert 109b also includes a stop 109c, which is configured to engage a protrusion 109d on the handle pivot 109. The movement of the handle 107 is limited by the engagement of the protrusion 109d with the stop 109c. In some examples, the handle pivot 109 is fixed to the base portion 102 and the insert 109b by pivot hardware 109a. In some examples, the pivot hardware 109a can be a screw, a bolt, a rivet, etc. In other examples, the handle pivot 109 also includes a strap 111, which is configured to allow a hand strap or handle 107 to be attached to the handle pivot 109. In some examples, the handle or hand strap 107 can be formed of various suitable materials, such as one or more plastics. For example, the handle 107 may have a core and an outer portion, the core being formed of polyvinyl chloride and the outer portion being formed of ethylene vinyl acetate. In other examples, the handle or hand strap 107 may be formed of a rope (such as a polyester rope) or a nylon webbing. In yet other examples, the handle or hand strap 107 may be made of various materials, such as one or more metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics, or fiber reinforced materials. In yet other examples, the handle or hand strap 107 may include padding to facilitate easier carrying via the shoulder or by hand.

[0055] Figure 2C and Figure 2D Another example handle pivot 109 is shown. The handle pivot 109 may include a handle or hand strap 107 attachment point 115. In other examples, such as Figure 2D As shown, the handle pivot 109 may include a first stop 113 and a second stop 113. The stop 113 is configured to engage at least one or more stops 109c or protrusions (not shown) when the handle pivot 109 engages the insert 109b. The configuration and geometry of the insert 109b and the handle pivot 109 may prevent the hand strap or handle 107 from rotating under the insulated container 100.

[0056] The base portion 102 also includes a second end portion 110 that defines an opening 112 (at Figure 5A ), opening 112 can be used to access the interior space of the insulated container. When the insulated container is in use (e.g., when the insulated container is in a closed configuration), opening 112 can be covered by lid 104. Base portion 102 can also include a plurality of side portions 114 connected to the bottom surface, and the plurality of side portions 114 define a space for receiving contents in insulated container 100. Side portions 114 can be arranged so that side portions 114 extend generally vertically from bottom surface 108.

[0057] In some examples, one or more side pocket handles 190 can be disposed in one or more side portions 114 (or other areas of the base portion 102). The side pocket handles can be integrally formed with the base portion 102 and can generally be undercuts or cutouts formed in the side portions 114 of the base 102. In some examples, such as in Figure 1A and Figure 1B , the undercut or cutout forming the side pocket handle may include a recess that extends along substantially all or a majority of the side portion 114. This may provide for ease of manufacturing the base 102 with an integrally formed handle 190. In some examples, the side pocket handle 190 may be flush with the outer surface of the base 102 to reduce the risk of breakage.

[0058] As discussed above, the insulated container 100 can be configured to contain, store, carry, etc. a volume of contents or possibly liquids. In some examples, the insulated container 100 can be configured to store between twenty-two (22) quarts and twenty-eight (28) quarts of contents. In some examples, the insulated container can be configured to store approximately twenty-four (24) quarts of contents. In other examples, the insulated container can be configured to store at least twenty-two (22) quarts of contents, or the insulated container can be configured to store at least twenty-eight (28) quarts of contents, etc. In still other examples, the insulated container can be configured to store approximately sixteen (16) quarts of contents, twenty-four (24) quarts of contents, thirty-six (36) quarts to thirty-eight (38) quarts of contents, or forty-eight (48) quarts to fifty-eight (58) quarts of contents. In still other examples, the insulated container 100 can be configured to store between approximately fourteen (14) quarts and approximately forty-five to twenty-eight (45) quarts of contents. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container 100 may be configured to store materials in a solid, liquid, or gaseous state, or combinations thereof, without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein.

[0059] In at least some examples, the insulated container 100 (as well as various other containers described herein) can be sized to accommodate the volume of the contents described above. For example, the insulated container 100 can be at least seventeen (17) inches tall, at least sixteen (16) inches wide, and at least fourteen (14) inches deep. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container 100 can be configured in different sizes (i.e., height, width, and depth) without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein.

[0060] As previously discussed, the insulated container 100 includes a lid 104. In some examples, the lid 104 can be connected to the base 102 in a closed configuration using a press fit. Additionally or alternatively, other fastening systems or devices can be used to secure the lid 104 to the base. Figure 1AAs shown, the insulated container 100 can include a latching device 120 and a retainer 140 of the base 102 on the front of the container to secure the lid 104 in a closed position. In some examples, the insulated container 100 includes at least one or more latching grooves 141, which are integrally formed at the top of the base 102. The latching groove 141 can be configured to provide a recess that is appropriately sized to accommodate the latch 120 in such a manner that the latch 120 is flush with the latching groove 141 when the lid 104 is in a closed and fixed configuration. In other examples, the latch 120 is flush with the latching groove 141 and the retainer 140 when the lid 104 is in a closed and fixed configuration. In other configurations, the insulated container 100 can include a lid 104 and a base 102 that form at least one corner lifting flange 192 to facilitate easy grasping of the lid for opening. In other examples, the insulated container can include a plurality of corner lifting flanges 192. In some examples, the lifting flanges 192 can be formed from an integrally molded portion of the corners of the lid 104 and an integrally molded portion of the front corners at the top of the base 102. In still other constructions, the insulated container 100 can include a front lifting flange 191 that is integrally molded into the base 102. The front lifting flange 191 can be integrally molded at the top of the base 102. The lifting flanges are configured to provide the insulated container with an easily accessible area to allow an individual to grip the lid 104 for easy opening (i.e., one-handed operation).

[0061] In some examples, the lid 104 can be hinged such that the lid 104 is connected to the base 102 at a hinge 116 (removably or permanently) and can rotate about the hinge 116. The hinge can be one of various types of hinges, including a continuous piano hinge, a double hinge, a ball joint hinge, a living hinge, etc. The hinge 116 can allow the lid 104 to be opened and rotated away from the base portion 102 to allow access (e.g., via the opening 112) to the interior space defined by the base portion 102. That is, the hinge can facilitate the lid 104 to rotate from a closed configuration of the insulated container (e.g., when the lid is in place to cover the interior space formed by the base) to an open configuration (e.g., when the lid does not cover the interior space formed by the base), and vice versa. In some examples, the insulated container 100 is configured with at least one hinge 116. In another example, the insulated container is configured with multiple hinges. In yet other configurations, the hinge 116 includes a first portion that is integrally formed in the lid 104 and a second portion that is integrally formed in the base 102. In yet other examples, the hinge 116 may also include at least one pin pocket 194 or a plurality of pin pockets 194 to secure the lid 104 to the base 102 via at least one hinge pin 195, thereby allowing the lid to rotate from a closed position to an open position. In other examples, a plurality of hinge pins 195 secure the lid 104 to the base 102.

[0062] In the examples described herein, the base 102 and the cover 104 may include an outer surface or shell 117 that surrounds and encloses an insulating portion 118, such as Figure 1C and Figure 5A As shown. The shell 117 is typically formed of various materials, such as one or more metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics, or fiber-reinforced materials. In some examples, the shell 117 can be formed of a plastic material, such as polyethylene, which is molded to form both the base 102 and the lid 104 portions. In some examples, the insulating portion 118 is formed of an insulating material exhibiting low thermal conductivity. For example, the insulating portion 118 can be formed of a polymer foam, such as a polyurethane foam (or filled with a polymer foam). Additional or other insulating materials may be used without departing from the present invention. In some examples, the base 102 and the lid 104 portions are formed using a rotational molding process as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art (not shown). However, various other types of molding or other manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, casting, forging, etc.) may be used to form an insulated container without departing from the present invention.

[0063] In other embodiments, FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C As shown, the thermally insulated container 200 includes the same Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe latching device 220 is similar to those discussed above. That is, the latching device includes a retainer 240 (e.g., similar to the retainer 140 on the container 100, such as the retainer 140 on the container 100) on the base 202 on the front of the container 200. Figure 1A As shown, the container 100 includes a latching device 120 to secure the lid 104 in the closed position). Therefore, when the lid 204 is in the fully closed position, the engaging portion of the latch (not shown) will be received in and engaged with the retainer 240 formed on the front of the insulated container 200 (as shown in FIG. Figure 3A ). In other configurations, the insulated container 200 may include a lid 204 and a base 202, the lid 204 and the base 202 forming at least one integrally formed corner lifting flange 292 to facilitate easy grasping of the lid for opening. In still other configurations, the insulated container 200 may include a front lifting flange 291 that is integrally formed in the base 202.

[0064] Similar to the examples discussed above, retainers 140 and 240 may be respectively Figure 1A and Figure 3A As shown, the insulated container 200 may be molded into the base 102 and 202. A process similar to the process described below can be used to engage / disengage the latch 220 with the retainer 240. In still other embodiments, the base portion 202 may also include a carrying handle or strap 207 (not shown). The carrying handle or strap 207 may be connected to the pivot 209. In still other embodiments, the insulated container may lack a carrying handle or strap and a pivot. In other embodiments, the insulated container 200 may include a pressure regulating device 210, which is arranged in the rear side or back side 214 of the base 202, such as Figure 3C In yet other examples, the pressure regulating device 210 can be configured in the cover 204 .

[0065] In other embodiments, the lid 204 of the insulated container 200 may include a plurality of accessory magnets 205, such as Figure 4AAs shown. The magnet 205 can be arranged on the top outer surface 203 of the cover 204. In some examples, the magnet can be generally disc-shaped or generally annular. In other examples, the magnet is configured to secure additional accessories to the top of the cover. In yet other examples, the magnet 205 is secured to the top of the cover via a press fit or an adhesive. In another example, the magnet 205 is threaded and screwed into the cover 204. In yet other examples, the magnet 205 is secured to the top of the cover by fasteners 205a (as shown in Figure 10) such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc. Some examples of attachable and removable accessories may include a cover bag, a plastic or wooden cutting board, a seat cushion, or a cover net. The base portion 202 may include a first end 206 having a bottom surface 208. The bottom surface 208 may be configured to support the insulated container on a surface such as a table, the ground, a vehicle cargo compartment, a boat deck, etc., and may include a plurality of feet 212, such as Figure 4B As shown. The feet 212 can be configured to provide a non-slip or no-slip surface and can be configured to keep the insulated container 200 elevated off the ground. In another example, the feet 212 can be configured to reduce friction with the ground or surface so that the insulated container can be more easily moved while the insulated container is on the ground (i.e., the insulated container can easily slide or be easily pushed across the ground). The feet 212 can be constructed of rubber, foam, plastic, or other suitable materials. In still other embodiments, the bottom surface 208 can include a logo or name of a company or manufacturer of the insulated container, which is embossed, integrally molded, or pressed into the shell 217, such as Figure 4B In some embodiments, a bottom pocket 216 can be integrally formed into the bottom surface 208 of the base portion 202. The bottom pocket 216 allows an individual to grip the base portion 202 from the bottom surface 208 to facilitate easy emptying or pouring of the contents of the insulated container (e.g., ice, melted ice, water, etc.).

[0066] Figure 5A The lid 104 of the insulated container 100 is shown in a generally open position. Figure 5C As shown, the lid 104 is in a generally closed but unsecured position. That is, the lid 104 is generally perpendicular to the base 102 and is covering the opening. In order to open the lid 104 and thereby access the interior space defined by the base 102 of the insulated container 100, the lid 104 can be opened along the Figure 5A104 is lifted upward in the direction of the arrow shown in . When the cover 104 is configured in the closed and secured position, the cover seals the opening 112. The cover is configured to move approximately 115° from the fully closed position to the fully open position. In some examples, the cover is configured to move at least 90°, 95°, 100°, 105°, 110°, 115°, or 120° from the fully closed position to the fully open position. In other examples, the cover 104 can be configured to move from approximately 90° to 120° in the fully open position. In some examples, when configured in the fully upright position, the cover remains upright. In still other examples, further reference is made to Figure 1A , Figure 1B , FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C and Figure 5A To open the lid 104 (e.g., to allow access to the interior space formed by the base 102), the hinged lid 104 can be rotated away from the base portion 102 and can be placed along the back side 114 of the base portion 102, (e.g., the lid can be moved from a closed configuration (e.g., in Figure 1A , Figure 1B , FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C and Figure 5C ) to the open configuration (e.g. Figure 5A In some examples, the fully open position or configuration can include at least a portion of the top exterior surface of the lid 104 contacting the rear (or other) side portion 114 of the base portion 102 of the insulated container 100.

[0067] like Figure 5A As shown, some example insulated containers may include a plurality of foam plugs 130, which are in the lower side of the cover 104. In other examples, the foam plug 130 may also include an accessory clip 132. The accessory clip may be configured to engage with the bottom (i.e., the lower side) of the cover 104 and fix additional accessories or devices to the bottom (i.e., the lower side) of the cover 104 to facilitate storage. For example, a mesh accessory may be attached to a plurality of clips 132. In some examples, the mesh (not shown) may be constructed of flexible rubber, and the mesh may prevent certain items from being exposed to water or ice residing in the interior space of the insulated container. Other accessories, such as trays or baskets, may be stored in the bottom of the interior space of the insulated container, and / or may be configured to rest at the top of the interior space. In some examples, the tray or basket may include a lip (not shown) around the periphery of the tray, which allows the tray to be suspended from the edge of the opening 112 while remaining in the interior space of the insulated container. This configuration allows the lid 104 to be configured in a closed and secured position, thereby sealing the interior space while the tray or basket is secured in place inside / within the insulated container 100 .

[0068] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the underside of the lid 104 may include a logo or name of the company or manufacturer of the insulated container, which is embossed, integrally molded, or pressed into the bottom of the lid 104.

[0069] Additionally, in some examples, the insulated container can include a gasket or other sealing device. The gasket can be disposed in the lid or the base and can help seal the lid and the base when the lid is in a closed and secured configuration. In other examples, the gasket can be disposed in the lid or the base and can provide a watertight seal when the lid is in a closed and secured configuration. In some examples, the gasket can be seated in a recess formed in at least one of the base and the lid and extending around a perimeter of at least one of the base or the lid. In other examples, such as Figure 5B As shown, the gasket 150 can be disposed in a gasket adapter 152 formed in at least one of the base 102 or the lid 104 and extending around the periphery of at least one of the base or the lid. In other examples, the gasket 150 can be constructed of rubber, silicone, or other suitable materials. The gasket can help maintain the temperature of the contents or liquid contained within the insulated container. Various other gasket examples can be used with any of the insulated containers described herein.

[0070] In some examples, the gasket may include strategically placed cutouts that can reduce or eliminate the need for a vent (e.g., a vent to prevent the lid from locking), as will be discussed more fully below. In some examples, the gasket may be a conventional gasket having a generally circular cross-section. In other examples, the gasket may have a specific cross-section that is configured to facilitate venting of the insulated container. In some examples, the cross-section is a V-shaped or generally V-shaped portion of the gasket. In yet other examples, the gasket may also include at least one drain hole to allow air or fluid to passively vent into and out of the interior space when the insulated container is in a closed and fixed configuration to prevent the lid from locking. In other examples, the gasket may include multiple drain holes. In still other examples, the gasket is configured to provide a watertight seal when the lid is in a closed and fixed configuration.

[0071] In some examples, the lid 104 can be configured to remain secured or locked in a closed position using a latching device 120. The latching device 120 can be various types of latches, including a latch having a latch portion and a keeper portion on the base 102, as well as various other types of latches.

[0072] Figure 1A The latch device 120 is shown in a closed and secured position, while Figure 5CThe latch device 120 is shown in an unsecured position while the lid 104 is in a closed but unsecured configuration. When in the secured position, the latch device 120 is positioned so that the lid 104 abuts the base 102 of the insulated container 100, thereby closing, securing and / or sealing the container. To disengage the latch device 120, as shown in FIG. Fig. 6A As shown, the gripping portion or latch lower portion 124 is pulled / flipped away from the base 102 of the container 100. In other words, the latch upper portion 123 stretches, causing the latch lower portion engagement tab 125 to disengage from the latch keeper 140. Once the engagement tab 125 leaves the latch keeper 140, the latch 120 moves away from the container and swings upward in an arc. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C As shown, the latch lower portion 124 can be pivotally attached and fixed to the latch upper portion 123. The latch upper portion 123 can be pivotally attached and fixed to the lid 104 of the insulated container 100.

[0073] Similarly, to close the container 100, the latch device 120 is moved in a downward arc toward the container 100. When the movement of the latch upper portion 123 and the latch lower portion 124 reaches the latch retainer 140, the latch lower portion 124 is rotated so that the engagement tab 125 is positioned downward toward the base 102, and the engagement tab 125 is seated / positioned in the retainer groove 142 in the bottom of the retainer 140, as shown in FIG. Figure 5CAs shown. The latch lower portion 124 is then rotated / pushed downward until the latch lower portion 124 and the latch upper portion 123 are placed and fixed. When in the placed and fixed position, the latch upper portion 123 is stretched and tensioned, thereby maintaining a constant downward force on the cover 104, fixing and sealing the cover 104 in a closed configuration. In some examples, the latch lower portion can be stiffer than the latch upper portion. In some examples, the latch upper portion can be stiffer than the latch lower portion. In yet other examples, the engagement tab can be formed of a rigid material, and the latch lower portion can be formed of an elastomeric material. The latch lower portion and the engagement tab can be formed by co-molding or injection molding (e.g., multi-material injection molding). In other examples, the engagement tab of the latch lower portion is a rigid material, and the rest of the latch lower portion is an elastomeric material. In some examples, the latch lower portion and the engagement tab can be formed of the same material. In another example, the latch top and the latch bottom may not be elastic and / or the latch top and the latch bottom may be semi-rigid. In this example, the gasket is also configured to compress, thereby allowing the latch bottom to be rotated so that the engagement lug can be placed / positioned in the retainer groove in the bottom of the retainer, thereby fixing the cover in a closed configuration. In some examples, the gasket may also be configured as an elastic member (i.e., replacing the latch top or bottom) to provide the necessary clearance required for the engagement lug of the latch bottom with the latch retainer. When in the placement and fixed position, the latch top and the latch bottom maintain the cover in the position of the compression gasket. Therefore, the gasket maintains a constant force on the cover, thereby fixing and sealing the cover in a closed configuration. Further, when in the placement position, the latch top 123 and the latch bottom 124 of the latch 120 may be mostly recessed in the latch groove 141, and in some examples, the latch mechanism 120 does not extend or protrude beyond its surface. In other examples, the latch device / mechanism 120 is generally rectangular in shape when the lid 104 is secured in the closed position / configuration.

[0074] As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the latch top 123 is made of material, and is sized so that: when in closed / placed and fixed position, there is still enough force to maintain the closed position of the container lid 104. In other words, in the closed position, a certain amount of tension is maintained on the latch top 123, because the latch top 123 is not fully restored to its unstretched position / state. In some examples, the latch top 123 can be an elastomeric rubber, and the latch bottom 124 can be a rigid plastic or composite material. In other examples, the latch top 123 can be a rigid plastic or composite material, and the latch bottom 124 can be an elastomeric rubber. In other examples, the latch top 123 can be constructed by elastomeric rubber and / or rigid plastic or composite material. In other examples, the latch bottom 124 can be constructed by elastomeric rubber and / or rigid plastic or composite material. In some examples, the latch top 123 and / or the latch bottom can be constructed wholly or in part by semi-rigid material and / or semi-elastomeric material. In another example, both the latch upper portion 123 and the latch lower portion 124 are elastomeric rubber. In yet another example, both the latch upper portion 123 and the latch lower portion 124 are rigid plastic or composite materials. In the closed position, the engagement tab 125 of the latch lower portion 124 is received in the recessed groove 142 of the latch keeper 140. In some exemplary examples, the engagement tab 125 is sized and shaped to provide maximum contact with the recessed groove 142, thereby ensuring a closure that can be easily maintained.

[0075] Reference FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C One example latching device 120 is described that may be used with the insulated container 100. The latching device 120 shown and described is merely one example latch that may be used, and various other types of latches may be used without departing from the invention.

[0076] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C 1 are front, perspective, and rear views of an example latch arrangement 120 for securing a lid in a closed configuration. The latch arrangement 120 includes a latch upper portion 123 and a latch lower portion 124. The latch lower portion also includes an engagement tab 125 that is configured to engage a recess or groove 142 formed on a bottom portion of the retainer portion 140. The latch lower portion may also include a finger lift 126 that is positioned opposite the engagement tab 125. In other examples, the finger lift 126 may extend out and away from or distally from the insulated container lid 104.

[0077] According to one aspect of the present invention, the latch upper portion 123 is made of a flexible, stretchable, resilient, elastomeric, one-piece molded material that is typically pivotally / hingedly attached to the lid portion 104 of the container 100 and is received in a recessed elongated latch slot 145 that is typically integrally molded to the container 100. In some examples, the latch slot can be integrally molded as a part of both the lid 104 and the bottom portion 102. The latch upper portion 123 and the latch lower portion 124 can be molded into a one-piece construction from a rubber material, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. The latch upper portion 123 and the latch lower portion 124 can also be formed from a material that is formed or made from a plastic material or another suitable material that can be formed or molded into a shape and thus retains its formed shape. The latch upper portion 123 and the latch lower portion 124 may be manufactured with sufficient size, thickness, and construction material to withstand repeated stress cycles as the latch 120 engages / disengages with the latch keeper 140 over time.

[0078] As in FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C As further depicted in FIG. 1 , the latch upper portion 123 may include a base 300, a first arm 302, and a second arm 304. The first arm 302 and the second arm 304 may be substantially perpendicular to the base 300. The first arm 302 may be substantially parallel to the second arm 304. The latch upper portion 123 may be substantially shaped like an inverted U-shape. In other examples, the latch lower portion 124 includes an engagement tab 125. The engagement tab 125 may be configured to pivotally rotate within / between the latch upper portion first arm 302 and the latch upper portion second arm 304. In another example, as Figure 1A The illustrated retainer 140 may be located between the latch upper first arm 302 , the latch upper second arm 304 , and below the latch upper base 300 . Figure 1A It is further shown that the retainer 140 can be flush with the latch upper base 300, the first arm 302, the second arm 304, and the latch lower portion 124 when the insulated container lid is in the closed and secured configuration.

[0079] Figure 6B and Figure 6C The latch lower portion 124 is shown to be pivotally attached to the latch upper portion 123 and secured to the latch upper portion 123 by the latch lower portion pin 122. The latch upper portion 123 can be pivotally attached to the cover 104 and secured to the cover 104 by the latch upper portion pin 121, as shown in FIG. Figure 5C shown.

[0080] In some examples, the latch 120 is configured such that the finger lift 126 extends from the latch lower portion 124 at an angle that is offset from the plane of the latch 120. The angle between the finger lift 126 and the latch lower portion 124 and the latch upper portion 123 can help or facilitate a user to grasp the finger lift 126. At this angle, the user can easily slide his or her finger between the finger lift 126 and the side of the base portion 102 of the insulated container 100 to disengage the latch 120 from the retainer 140. Further, because the latch upper portion 123 is made of a resilient material, the finger lift 126 is not easily displaced or damaged even if the finger lift 126 can extend from the body of the container.

[0081] like Figure 6B , the finger lift 126 is generally formed into a shape that is easily grasped or approached by a user. Without intending to be limited thereto, other shapes and geometric structures may be thought of for the finger lift 126 suitable for operating the latch 120.

[0082] Similar to the examples discussed above, another feature of the latch mechanism or device 120, the latch retainer 140 can be integrally formed within the base portion 102. The latch retainer 140 can be positioned within an elongated retainer slot 141. As previously discussed, the latch retainer can include a groove or slot 142 formed in the bottom of the retainer 140. The recessed groove 142 is generally configured to receive the engagement tab 125 of the latch lower portion 124. In other examples, the latch retainer 140 can be generally square or generally rectangular in shape. Similarly, the elongated retainer slot 141 can be generally rectangular in shape. This combination of features provides a sturdy and very secure lid latch system.

[0083] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Another example insulated container 400 is shown with a lid removed to better illustrate the interior space 412. In some examples, at least one pressure regulating device 410 can be configured in the rear portion 414 of the base 402. The pressure regulating device 410 can be configured to regulate the internal pressure of the interior space 412 using external atmospheric pressure. The pressure regulating device 410 can be permanently attached or removably inserted into a hole (not shown) that is integrally formed in the rear portion 414. In some examples, the pressure regulating device can include an exhaust port 402 positioned on the interior rear portion 414 and within the interior space 412. In some examples, the exhaust port 402 can include a plurality of umbrella valve exhaust ports 411 configured to allow one-way passage and release of air from the interior space 412 via the umbrella valve 500, such as Fig. 8A and Figure 8BThe pressure regulating valve may further include an exhaust gasket 406, an umbrella valve gasket 408 and an exhaust stem 404, as shown in FIG. Figure 8B As shown. In some examples, the exhaust stem 404 can include a plurality of ribs configured to provide a friction or press fit in a generally cylindrical hole integrally formed in the rear portion 414. In still other configurations, the pressure regulating device can be secured in the rear portion 414 by adhesive, RF welding, etc. In another example, an umbrella valve 500 can be configured within and above the stem 404 and the umbrella washer 408. In other examples, the pressure regulating device can also include a duckbill valve 504 within the stem 404.

[0084] like Fig. 8A , Fig.9A and Fig. 9B As shown, the pressure regulating device 410 may include an umbrella valve 500 and a duckbill valve 504. The duckbill valve 504 and the umbrella valve 500 may be configured to allow air to be passively transferred in and out of the interior space 412 of the insulated container 400 to regulate the internal pressure of the insulated container 400 and to equalize the internal pressure of the insulated container 400 with atmospheric pressure. In one example, the umbrella valve 500 is an elastomeric valve having a diaphragm-shaped sealing disc 506 that creates a seal over the umbrella valve exhaust port 411. When the pressure within the interior space 412 reaches a predetermined level, a suitable force is achieved to lift the convex diaphragm 506 from the umbrella valve exhaust port 411 to allow air to flow in a one-way direction (i.e., out of the interior space 412). The diaphragm 506 is also configured to prevent air from immediately flowing back in the opposite direction. Thus, for example, when the atmospheric pressure decreases (e.g., climbing a mountain or driving uphill), the pressure regulating device reduces the pressure within the insulated container. In yet other examples, the pressure regulating device 410 can also include a duckbill valve 504. The duckbill valve 504 includes a channel 502 configured to allow air to enter the interior space 412 from outside the insulated container 400 when the internal pressure of the interior space 412 is less than atmospheric pressure. In another example, the duckbill valve 504 can be a one-piece elastomeric component including the channel 502. The valve 504 can include an elastomeric lip 508 that is generally shaped like a duckbill, the elastomeric lip 508 configured to prevent fluid from flowing back out of the interior space 412, and is configured to allow air to flow into the interior space 412 when atmospheric pressure is greater than the internal pressure of the insulated container 400 (e.g., coming down a hill or driving downhill).

[0085] FIG. 10A to FIG. 23 Another example insulated container 600 is shown according to one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 10A to FIG. 23 In the embodiments of the present invention, similar reference numerals in the "6xx" series of reference numerals are used to refer to features, rather than as in Figure 1A / Figure 1B / Figure 1C The "1xx" used in the embodiments of Figure 3A / Figure 3B / Figure 3C "2xx" as used in the examples, or as in Fig. 7A / Figure 7B The "4xx" feature used in the embodiments of the present invention can be similar to the "1xx", "2xx" or "4xx" features. Figure 1A / Figure 1B / Figure 1C , Figure 3A / Figure 3B / Figure 3C and Fig. 7A / Figure 7B Certain features of the insulated container 600 described with reference to the insulated container 100, 200, or 400 may be described in less detail, or may not be described at all. Figures 1A to 9B Any features described with respect to insulated containers 100, 200, and 400 may be utilized with insulated container 600.

[0086] Fig. 10A A front view of the insulated container 600 is depicted. Fig. 10B and Fig. 10D A side view of an insulated container 600 is depicted. Fig. 10C A rear view of the insulated container 600 is depicted. Fig. 10E A front perspective view of the insulated container 600 is shown.

[0087] In one example, the insulated container 600 may include a base portion 602 and a lid 604, and in some examples, the lid 604 may be non-destructively removably coupled to the base portion 602. The base portion 602 may be an insulating structure that forms an interior space for containing contents or liquids. In some examples, the shape of the base portion 602 may be cubic or approximately cubic. In yet other examples, the shape of the base portion 602 may be approximately cylindrical, or may have a generally rectangular cross-section. Various other shapes may be used without departing from the present invention.

[0088] The base portion 602 can include a first end 606 having a bottom surface 608. The bottom surface 608 can be configured to support the insulated container on a surface such as a table, the ground, a vehicle bed, a boat deck, or the like.

[0089] The base portion 602 also includes a second end portion 610 that defines an opening 612 (at Fig.11 ), opening 612 can be used to access the interior space of the insulated container. Fig.11A top perspective partial view of the insulated container 600 is shown, wherein the lid 604 is open. When the insulated container 600 is in use (e.g., when the insulated container 600 is in a closed configuration), the opening 612 can be covered by the lid 604. The base portion 602 can also include a plurality of side portions 614 connected to the bottom surface 608, and the plurality of side portions 614 define a space for receiving contents in the insulated container 600. The side portions 614 can be arranged so that the side portions 614 extend generally vertically from the bottom surface 608. The plurality of side portions 614 can include: a front side portion 614A; a rear side portion 614B, opposite the front side portion 614A; and, two lateral side portions 614C, between the front side portion 614A and the rear side portion 614B.

[0090] In some examples, one or more side pocket handles 690 can be disposed in one or more side portions 614 (or other areas of the base portion 602). The side pocket handles 690 can be integrally formed with the base portion 602 and can generally be undercuts or cutouts formed in the side portions 614 of the base 602. Fig. 10B and Fig. 10D The undercut or cutout (shown in FIG. 1 ) forming the side pocket handle 690 may include a recess that extends along substantially all or most of the length of the side portion 614. This may provide for ease of manufacturing the base 602 with an integrally formed handle 690. In some examples, the side pocket handle 690 may be flush with the outer surface of the base 602 to reduce the risk of breakage.

[0091] As discussed above, the insulated container 600 can be configured to contain, store, carry, etc. a certain volume of contents or possibly liquids. In some examples, the insulated container 600 can be configured to store approximately 60 liters (approximately 63.4 quarts) or 48 liters (approximately 50.7 quarts). In some examples, the insulated container 600 can be configured to store between twenty-two (22) quarts and twenty-eight (28) quarts of contents. In some examples, the insulated container 600 can be configured to store approximately twenty-four (24) quarts of contents. In other examples, the insulated container 600 can be configured to store at least twenty-two (22) quarts of contents, or the insulated container can be configured to store at least twenty-eight (28) quarts of contents, etc. In still other examples, the insulated container 600 can be configured to store approximately sixteen (16) quarts of contents, twenty-four (24) quarts of contents, thirty-six (36) quarts to thirty-eight (38) quarts of contents, or forty-eight (48) quarts to fifty-eight (58) quarts of contents. In still other examples, the insulated container 600 can be configured to store between approximately fourteen (14) quarts and approximately forty-five to twenty-eight (45) quarts of contents. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container 600 can be configured to store materials in a solid, liquid, or gaseous state, or combinations thereof, without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein.

[0092] In at least some examples, the insulated container 600 (as well as various other containers described herein) can be sized to accommodate the volume of the contents described above. For example, the insulated container 600 can be at least seventeen (17) inches tall, at least sixteen (16) inches wide, and at least fourteen (14) inches deep. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container 600 can be configured in different sizes (i.e., height, width, and depth) without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein.

[0093] As previously discussed, the insulated container 600 includes a lid 604. In some examples, the lid 604 can be connected to the base 602 in a closed configuration using a press fit. Additionally or alternatively, other fastening systems or devices can be used to secure the lid 604 to the base. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10E As shown, the insulated container 600 may include a latching device 620 and a retainer at the base 602 on the front of the container to secure the lid 604 in a closed position. In some examples, the lid 604 can be configured to remain secured or locked in a closed position using the latching device 620. The latching device 620 can be various types of latches, including latches having a latch portion and a retainer portion on the base 602, as well as various other types of latches. The insulated container 600 may include a latching device as described above and in Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 3A , Figure 4A , Figure 5A , Figure 5C , Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C Any latching devices and retainers specifically shown in .

[0094] In such Fig. 10E In other configurations shown, the insulated container 600 may include a lid 604 and a base 602 that form at least one corner lifting flange 692 to facilitate easy grasping of the lid for opening. In other examples, the insulated container 600 may include multiple corner lifting flanges 692. In some examples, the lifting flange 692 may be formed by an integrally formed portion of the corner of the lid 604 and an integrally formed portion of the front corner at the top of the base 602. In still other configurations, the insulated container 600 may include a front lifting flange 691 that is integrally formed into the base 602. The front lifting flange 691 may be integrally formed at the top of the base 602. The lifting flange 691 may be configured to provide an easily accessible area to the insulated container 600 to allow an individual to grasp the lid 604 for easy opening (i.e., one-handed operation).

[0095] In some examples, the lid 604 can be hinged such that the lid 604 is connected to the base 602 at a hinge 616 (removably or permanently) and can rotate about the hinge 616. The hinge can be one of various types of hinges, including a continuous piano hinge, a double hinge, a ball joint hinge, a living hinge, etc. The hinge 616 can allow the lid 604 to be opened and rotated away from the base portion 602 to allow access (e.g., via the opening 612) to the interior space defined by the base portion 602. That is, the hinge 616 can facilitate the lid 604 to rotate from a closed configuration of the insulated container 600 (e.g., when the lid 604 is in place to cover the interior space formed by the base 602) to an open configuration (e.g., when the lid 604 does not cover the interior space formed by the base 602), and vice versa. In some examples, the insulated container 600 is configured with at least one hinge 616. In another example, the insulated container is configured with multiple hinges 616. In still other constructions, the hinge 616 includes a first portion that is integrally molded into the cover 604 and a second portion that is integrally molded into the base 602 .

[0096] In the examples described herein, the base 602 and the cover 604 may include an outer surface or shell that surrounds and encloses the insulating portion, such as Figure 1C and Figure 5AAs shown and described. The housing is generally formed of various materials, such as one or more metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics or fiber-reinforced materials. In some examples, the housing can be formed of a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic olefin elastomer (TPO), polypropylene or polyethylene with a rubber agent, and the plastic material is molded to form both the base 602 and the cover 604 parts. Thermoplastic olefin elastomer (TPO) is composed of polypropylene, polyethylene or other polyolefins as hard segments and rubber components as soft segments, such as ethylene propylene rubber (EPM or EPDM). In some examples, the insulation part is formed by an insulation material exhibiting low thermal conductivity. For example, the insulation part can be formed by polymer foam, such as polyurethane foam (or filled with polymer foam). Without departing from the present invention, additional or other insulation materials can be used. In some examples, the base 602 and the cover 604 parts are formed using an injection molding process as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art (not shown). However, various other types of molding or other manufacturing processes (eg, rotational molding, stamping, casting, forging, etc.) may be used to form the insulated container without departing from the invention.

[0097] The base portion 602 may include a first end 606 having a bottom surface 608. The bottom surface 608 may be configured to support the insulated container 600 on a surface such as a table, the ground, a vehicle cargo bed, a boat deck, etc., and may include a plurality of feet, as described above and in Figure 4B In another exemplary embodiment, the bottom surface 608 of the insulated container 600 may include one or more lateral legs 613, such as Fig.19 As shown. The lateral feet 613 or feet can be configured to provide a non-slip or no-slip surface and can be configured to keep the insulated container 600 elevated off the ground. In another example, the lateral feet 613 or feet can be configured to reduce friction with the ground or surface so that the insulated container can be moved more easily (i.e., the insulated container can slide easily or be easily pushed across the ground) while the insulated container is on the ground. The lateral feet 613 can be separated and parallel, thereby creating and providing an air gap between the bottom surface 608 of the insulated container and the ground. The lateral feet 613 or feet can be constructed of rubber, foam, plastic or other suitable materials. In another embodiment, the lateral feet 613 can be molded into the base 602 with an alternative surface treatment or texture in a mold for the lateral feet 613. In yet other embodiments, the bottom surface 608 can include a logo or name of a company or manufacturer of the insulated container, which is embossed, integrally molded or pressed into the shell.

[0098] Fig.11 , Fig.15 and Fig.16A The lid 604 of the insulated container 600 is shown in a generally open position. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10E As shown, the lid 604 is in a generally closed configuration. That is, the lid 604 is generally perpendicular to the base 602 and is covering the opening. In order to open the lid 604 and thereby access the interior space defined by the base 602 of the insulated container 600, the lid 604 can be lifted upward. When the lid 604 is configured in a closed and secured position, the lid 604 seals the opening 612.

[0099] In addition, in some examples, such as Fig.11 As shown, the insulated container 600 can include a gasket 650 or other sealing device. The gasket 650 can be disposed in the lid 604 or the base 602 and can help seal the lid 604 and the base 602 when the lid 604 is in a closed and fixed configuration. In other examples, the gasket 650 can be disposed in the lid 604 or the base 602 and can provide a watertight or nearly watertight seal when the lid 604 is in a closed and fixed configuration. In some examples, the gasket 650 can be positioned in a recess formed in at least one of the base 602 and the lid 604 and extending around the perimeter of at least one of the base 602 or the lid 604. In other examples, such as Fig.11 As shown, the gasket 650 can be disposed in a gasket adapter 652 formed in at least one of the base 602 or the lid 604 and extending around the perimeter of at least one of the base 602 or the lid 604. In other examples, the gasket 650 can be constructed of rubber (such as neoprene or EPDM), silicone, or other suitable materials. The gasket 650 can help maintain the temperature of the contents or liquid contained within the insulated container 600. Various other gasket examples can be used with any of the insulated containers described herein.

[0100] In some examples, the gasket 650 may include strategically placed cutouts that can reduce or eliminate the need for vents (e.g., vents for preventing lid locking), as will be discussed more fully below. The gasket 650 may include cutouts, or the lid 604 or base 602 may include changes in geometry to allow compression in the gasket 650 to be reduced or eliminated. Changes in the geometry of the base 602 or lid 604 can reduce compression in the gasket 650 and allow venting when the internal pressure of the insulated container 600 reaches a certain pressure. In some examples, the gasket 650 may be a conventional gasket with a generally circular cross-section. In other examples, the gasket 650 may have a specific cross-section that is configured to help vent the insulated container. In some examples, the cross-section is a V-shaped or generally V-shaped portion of the gasket 650. In yet other examples, the gasket 650 may also include at least one vent hole to allow air or fluid to passively vent into and out of the interior space when the insulated container 600 is in a closed and fixed configuration to prevent lid locking. In other examples, the gasket 650 can include a plurality of drain holes. In still other examples, the gasket 650 is configured to provide a watertight seal when the lid 604 is in a closed and secured configuration.

[0101] In other examples, the insulated container 600 may include a handle assembly 660, such as FIG. 12A to FIG. 18 Specifically shown in . FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C A side view of the insulated container 600 is shown showing the handle assembly 660 in various stowed and extended configurations. Fig.13 A side view of the insulated container 600 is shown in a tilted configuration and the handle assembly 660 in an extended configuration. Fig.14 A rear perspective view of the insulated container 600 is shown with the handle assembly 660 in a stowed configuration. Fig.15 A top rear perspective view of the insulated container 600 is shown with the lid 604 open and the handle assembly 660 in an extended configuration. Fig.16A A side view of the insulated container 600 is shown with the lid 604 open and the handle assembly 660 in an extended configuration. Fig. 16B Shown from Fig.16A Close-up side view of the handle assembly area and cover area of ​​the . Fig.17A A side view of the pull handle assembly 660 is shown in both a stowed position and an extended position. Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C Shown from Fig.17A A close-up side view of the handle assembly area. Fig.18 A close-up perspective view of the handle bumper area of ​​pull handle assembly 660 is shown.

[0102] FIG. 12A to FIG. 18A handle assembly 660 is shown that enables a user to ergonomically manipulate the insulated container 600. The handle assembly 660 can assist in lifting the end opposite the wheels 672 off the resting surface of the container when the insulated container 600 is tilted into a rolling position. FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C The handle assembly 660 is shown as Fig. 12A The collapsed configuration shown in Fig. 12C The handle assembly 660 is in the extended position. FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C As shown, the pull handle assembly 660 may be a telescoping handle design having a three-stage handle / arm configuration. Fig. 12A Pull handle assembly 660 is shown in a first stage, wherein pull handle assembly 660 is in a stowed (or retracted or nested) configuration. Fig. 12B The pull handle assembly 660 is shown in the second stage, wherein the pull handle assembly 660 is in a partially extended configuration. Fig. 12C The handle assembly 660 is shown in the third stage, wherein the handle assembly 660 is in a fully extended configuration. The handle assembly 660 can have one or more locking mechanisms 665A, 665B for the stowed configuration, the partially extended configuration, and / or the fully extended configuration.

[0103] The handle assembly 660 may be connected to the side portions 614 of the base 602, and in particular, the rear portion 614B of the base 602. The handle assembly 660 may be disposed on the same rear portion 614B that includes the wheel assembly 670. With the handle assembly 660 in an extended configuration, a user may grasp the handle 662 to tilt and lift the front portion 614A upward, which transfers the weight of the insulated container 600 to the wheels 672 and allows the user to pull the insulated container 600. The handle assembly 660 may have an extended configuration that enables the user to pull the container 600. Fig.13 Insulated container 600 is shown tilted with handle assembly 660 fully extended. Handle assembly 660 can have a stowed configuration in which handle assembly 660 can be flush with the top of insulated container 600. When handle assembly 660 is in the stowed configuration, upper surface 663 of handle 662 can be substantially parallel to the upper surface of lid 604.

[0104] The handle assembly 660 may be attached to the rear portion 614B. The handle assembly 660 may include one or more brackets 666A, 666B, 666C, and the one or more brackets 666A, 666B, 666C attach the handle assembly 660 to the rear portion 614B. The handle assembly 660 may include one or more brackets to attach the handle assembly to the rear portion 614B, such as one bracket, two brackets, three brackets, or four or more brackets. The one or more brackets may include: a first bracket 666A (or upper bracket), which is attached to the top portion of the handle assembly 660; a second bracket 666B (or middle bracket), which is attached to the middle portion of the handle assembly 660; and a third bracket 666C (or lower bracket), which is attached to the lower portion of the handle assembly 660. As Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, the first bracket 666A, the second bracket 666B and the third bracket 666C can all be connected to the lower arm 664C, and in particular attach the lower arm 664C and the handle assembly 660 to the rear portion 614B. Before the insulation (foam) is filled into the base 602, the bracket 666 can be mounted to the mounting point on the rear portion 614B of the base 602.

[0105] Additionally, brackets 666A, 666B, 666C may be U-shaped brackets that fit around the exterior of lower arm 664C of handle assembly 660 to hold lower arm 664C and handle assembly 660 against rear portion 614B of insulated container 600. Brackets 666A, 666B, 666C may be various other shapes without departing from embodiments of the present invention. Additionally, brackets 666A, 666B, 666C may be various widths. Fig.14 and Fig.15 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the first bracket 666A and the third bracket 666C may include a first width. The second bracket 666B may include a second width that is less than the first width. The brackets 666A, 666B, 666C may include one or more fasteners 667 on each side of the brackets 666A, 666B, 666C, and the one or more fasteners 667 connect the brackets 666A, 666B, 666C to the rear side portion 614B of the insulated container 600. In an exemplary embodiment, the first bracket 666A and the third bracket 666C may include two fasteners 667 on each side of the brackets 666A, 666C, and the two fasteners 667 connect the brackets 666A, 666C to the rear side portion 614B of the insulated container 600. The second bracket 666B may include one fastener 667 on each side of the second bracket 666B, and the one fastener 667 connects the second bracket 666B to the rear side portion 614B of the insulated container 600.

[0106] like Fig.16A , Fig. 16B , Fig.17A , Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C As shown, handle assembly 660 can include a telescoping feature. Handle assembly 660 can include upper arm 664A, middle arm 664B, and lower arm 664C. Upper arm 664A can be nested inside middle arm 664B and can slide inside middle arm 664B. Additionally, middle arm 664B can be nested inside lower arm 664C and can slide inside lower arm 664C. This nesting and sliding of upper arm 664A, middle arm 664B, and lower arm 664C can produce the telescoping feature of handle assembly 660.

[0107] Fig.16A and Fig. 16B The handle assembly 660 is shown in an extended configuration, wherein the cover 604 is open. The cover 604 can be a low profile cover, such that the low profile cover allows the cover 604 to be fully opened when the handle assembly 660 is in the fully extended configuration. In another embodiment, the cover 604 can include a low profile cushion, such that the low profile cushion allows the cover 604 with the cushion to be fully opened when the handle assembly 660 is in the fully extended configuration.

[0108] like Fig.16A and Fig. 16B As further shown, the cover 604 may include a stepped portion 605 located at the back of the cover 604. The stepped portion 605 may be inserted from the topmost surface of the cover 604 closest to the rear portion 614B. In one embodiment, the stepped portion 605 may be inserted approximately 1 / 2 inch from the topmost surface of the cover 604. In other embodiments, the stepped portion 605 may be inserted 1 / 4 inch, 3 / 4 inch, 1 inch, 1-1 / 2 inches, or other dimensions from the topmost surface of the cover 604 without departing from the invention. The stepped portion 605 may help eliminate the risk of pinching between the intermediate arm 664B and the cover 604. The stepped portion 605 may include various shapes and sizes without departing from the invention.

[0109] Fig.17A , Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C The internal components of the pull handle assembly 660 are shown in detail. Fig.17ASpecifically, handle assembly 660 is shown in both a partially extended configuration and a fully extended configuration. Handle assembly 660 may include one or more locking mechanisms, namely an upper locking mechanism 665A and a lower locking mechanism 665B. Locking mechanisms 665A, 665B may be installed between arms 664A, 664B, 664C for latching and locking handle assembly 660 in a stowed configuration and / or a fully extended configuration. Specifically, upper locking mechanism 665A may be installed between upper arm 664A and middle arm 664B. Lower locking mechanism 665B may be installed between middle arm 664B and lower arm 664C. Release button 668 may be connected to locking mechanisms 665A, 665B and act as an actuator for locking mechanisms 665A, 665B. Locking mechanisms 665A, 665B may be released with release button 668 on handle 662. The locking mechanisms 665A, 665B may include various components known and used in the art for telescoping handles, such as actuators, hinges, spring-loaded bearings, bushings, locking pins, locking holes, etc.

[0110] Additionally, if Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C As shown, the pull handle assembly 660 can include extended arm overlap distances D1, D2. The extended arm overlap distances D1, D2 can be defined as the overlap between the nested arms when the arms 664A, 664B, 664C are in the extended configuration. The extended arm overlap distances D1, D2 can allow for more contact with the inner portions of the arms and bushings, thereby creating a stronger, more stable pull handle assembly 660 when in the extended configuration. The pull handle assembly 660 can include an extended upper arm overlap distance D1, which represents the distance between the bottom of the upper arm 664A and the top of the middle arm 664B when the upper arm 664A and the middle arm 664B are in the locked configuration and fully extended. The handle assembly 660 may also include an extended lower arm overlap distance D2, which represents the distance between the bottom of the middle arm 664B and the top of the lower arm 664C when the middle arm 664B and the lower arm 664C are in the locked configuration and fully extended. The extended arm overlap distances D1 and D2 may be approximately 70 mm. The extended arm overlap distances D1 and D2 may also be other distances without departing from the present invention.

[0111] like Fig.18 As shown, handle assembly 660 may include handle 662. A user may grasp handle 662 to extend handle assembly 660 to an extended configuration. A user may grasp handle 662 in the extended configuration to tilt and lift front portion 614A upward, which transfers the weight of insulated container 600 to wheels 672 and allows the user to pull insulated container 600.

[0112] The pull handle 662 may include a handle bumper 669. The handle bumper 669 may be located on each of the pull arms 664 of the pull handle 662. The handle bumpers 669 may be used to prevent wear of the handle grip 663 on the pull handle 662 when / if the insulated container 600 is tipped over. The handle bumper 669 may include a raised portion that extends circumferentially around the pull handle 662 adjacent to the upper pull arm 664A and / or around the upper pull arm 664A. The raised portion may extend circumferentially around the pull handle 662 and / or the pull arm 664 partially or completely.

[0113] The handle assembly 660 components can be formed from a polymer material, which can be a filled or unfilled polymer. For example, the polymer material can be PC-ABS, polyethylene, or other similar materials. In addition, the handle assembly 660 components can be manufactured by polymer processing techniques, such as by various molding and casting techniques and / or other known techniques. Alternatively or optionally, the handle assembly 660 can be formed from a metal material, such as an aluminum alloy, a magnesium alloy, or other metal material having a density less than 3 g / cc. As another option, the insulated container 600 components, such as the lid, the body, the lid support member, and the handle assembly, can include a structural foam having a composite polymer material, the structural foam having a low-density foam core and a higher-density polymer surface layer.

[0114] In other examples, the insulated container 600 may include a rear wheel assembly 670, such as FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D and Figures 19 to 21 Specifically shown in . Fig.19 A bottom perspective view of the insulated container 600 is shown, showing the wheel assembly 670. Fig. 20A and Fig. 20B A rear cross-sectional view of a wheel assembly 670 and axle attachment for an insulated container 600 is shown. Fig.21 A rear cross-sectional view of the shaft attachment and anti-rotation mount of the wheel assembly 670 for the insulated container 600 is shown.

[0115] The insulated container 600 may include a wheel assembly 670 including a pair of wheels 672 to assist a user in easily moving the insulated container 600. The wheel assembly 670 may include a tire 671 and a wheel 672, wherein each wheel 672 may be mounted to the base 602 using an axle 674. The wheel assembly 670 may include a single axle 674 for two wheels 672 or a double axle 674 having an axle for each wheel 672. The tire 671 may be made of polyurethane foam having a hardness of approximately 80 Shore A and a density of 0.75 KG / LT. The wheel 672 may be made of a rigid material such as a glass-filled nylon material. The tire 671 may be overmolded, stretched, or gripped over the wheel 672. The wheel 672 may include ribs or other gripping structures on the inner rim of the wheel 672 to help grip the foam tire 671.

[0116] Each wheel assembly 670 and wheel 672 can be mounted to the base 602. More specifically, each wheel 672 can be mounted to the rear portion 614B adjacent to the bottom surface 608 of the insulated container 600. Each wheel 672 can be fixed to the wheel recess 673 on the base portion 602 and the rear portion 614B. Each wheel 672 can be fixed in the recess 673 using at least one spring retaining ring 675 and connected to at least one shaft 674. Additionally, the wheel 672 and tire 671 can extend to the rear beyond the handle assembly 660, thereby providing additional end protection to the handle assembly 660. Additionally, when the insulated container 600 is placed flat on the ground, the wheel 672 and tire 671 can be higher than the ground. The tire 671 can also include a flat tread profile, which is used to improve sandy / soft terrain performance. The wheel 672 can also include a single-walled hub that provides lighter weight. Additionally, the flatter and thinner tread profile of tire 671 may provide a lightweight wheel.

[0117] Fig. 20A and Fig. 20B An exemplary embodiment of a wheel assembly 670 is specifically shown, which shows a wheel 672 and a shaft 674 for an insulated container 600. The wheel assembly 670 can include one or more ball bearings 677A, an inner spacer 677B, and an outer spacer 677C, the outer spacer 677C setting the distance between the bearings 677A. The inner spacer 677B can be made of an aluminum material. The outer spacer 677C can be made of a rigid polypropylene material and can be used to set the position of the wheel 672. The wheel 672, the inner spacer 677B, the outer spacer 677C, and the wheel eyelet 676 can be retained along the axis of the shaft 674 by a spring retaining ring 675 along the end of the shaft 674. The spring retaining ring 675 can be radially assembled around the end of the shaft 674 to keep the shaft 674 through the wheel 672 and keep the shaft 674 in the base 602.

[0118] Additionally, the wheel assembly 670 may include a wheel eyelet 676. The wheel eyelet 676 may be located between the wheel recess 673 and the outer spacer 677C. The wheel eyelet 676 may also be positioned around the shaft 674. The wheel eyelet 676 may provide a seal between the wheel recess 673 and the inner portion of the base 602. The wheel eyelet 676 may be a rubber / non-rigid material (such as EPDM rubber). The wheel eyelet 676 may be used to prevent water or other materials from entering the insulated center of the base 602. The wheel eyelet 676 may be a bushing or eyelet to absorb shock or force impacted on the wheel 672, as well as absorb shock and cushion the shaft 674. By absorbing shock, the wheel eyelet 676 may allow the shaft 674 to rotate when high forces are applied to the wheel 672. For example, during a drop test simulating a fall of the insulated container 600 and the insulated container 600 being loaded with approximately 75 pounds, the wheel assembly 670 will not be damaged due to the wheel eyelet 676. All the forces from the drop can be concentrated on the shaft 674, rather than on the wheels 672. The forces from the drop can be absorbed and / or dissipated by the wheel eyelets 676, thereby reducing and preventing high shocks from reaching the base 602, shaft 674, shaft brackets 678 and other key components. Drop testing can include dropping the insulated container 600 from approximately one meter off the ground and be completed under cold, hot and room temperature conditions. The insulated container 600 can be dropped in multiple orientations, including being dropped on the back where the impact force is applied to both wheels 672, and being dropped on the corner of the wheel where the force is applied to a single wheel 672.

[0119] Fig.21 An exemplary embodiment of a shaft bracket 678 for preventing the shaft 674 from rotating and coming out is specifically shown. The shaft bracket 678 can be an anti-rotation mount against the base 602. Each shaft 674 can have at least one shaft bracket 678. Additionally, each shaft 674 can have multiple shaft brackets 678, such as two, three or four shaft brackets 678. One or more shaft brackets 678 can be covered from sight by the handle assembly 660. The shaft bracket 678 can be attached to the shaft 674 with a fastener 679. The shaft 674 can include a flat section 674A, and the flat section 674A has a fastener attachment point 679A. The flat section 674A of the shaft 674 can be compressed and permanently matched with the flat section 678A of the shaft bracket 678. The shaft bracket 678 can include additional flat and matching features 678B, which make the shaft bracket 678 contact and remain against the base 602. These flat sections 678A may prevent the shaft 674 from rotating about the base 602 by keeping the shaft 674 stationary and in a permanent position in the base 602 .

[0120] In other examples, the insulated container 600 may include a drain plug assembly 680, such as Fig. 10C , Fig.19 , Fig. 22 and Fig.23 Specifically shown in . Fig.19 A bottom perspective view of the insulated container 600 is shown, showing the drain plug assembly 680. Fig. 22 A side cross-sectional view of a drain plug assembly 680 for use with an insulated container 600 is shown. Fig.23 An exploded view of a drain plug assembly 680 for use with an insulated container 600 is shown.

[0121] like Fig. 22 and Fig.23 As shown, the drain plug assembly 680 may include a main tube 682, an outer tube 694, and a gasket 686. The drain plug assembly 680 may be positioned and mounted within a through hole in the wall of the base portion 602. In the illustrated embodiment, the drain plug assembly 680 may be positioned on the rear portion 614B adjacent to the bottom surface 608 of the insulated container 600. The drain plug assembly 680 may be mounted and positioned within a drain plug insert 609, which provides a protected drain plug assembly 680. The drain plug assembly 680 may include a ratchet feature, wherein the main tube 682 (or inner tube) is keyed so that when the main tube 682 is screwed into the outer tube 694, the main tube 682 cannot rotate / open.

[0122] The main pipe 682 may include a drainage through hole portion 685 having one or more ratchet keys 683 on a first end and a main pipe edge 681 on the other end opposite to the first end. The main pipe 682 may also have an external threaded connection 684, which is located between the main pipe edge 681 and the ratchet key 683. The main pipe 682 may also include a washer 686. The washer 686 may provide compression between the main pipe 682 and the inner wall 681 of the base 602. The washer 686 may include a radial feature 686A, which helps to place the washer 686 against the main pipe edge 681 and the inner wall 618 of the base 602. The washer 686 may be a separate component, or the washer 686 may be molded into the main pipe 682. The washer 686 may be a softer material, such as silicone, while the main pipe 682 is a more rigid material. The washer 686 may, for example, have a hardness of 40 Shore A.

[0123] The outer tube 694 may also include a sealing ring 694A, which is inherent to the outer tube rim 695 of the outer tube 694. The sealing ring 694A contacts the rear side portion 614B and the base outer wall structure 619. The outer tube 694 may include an internal threaded connection 698. The outer tube 694 may also include an outer tube rim 695 and ratchet teeth 697 on the same end. The ratchet teeth 697 may be located on the inner portion of the outer tube 694. The outer tube 694 may also include a sealing ring 694A, which is inherent to the outer tube rim 695 of the outer tube 694. The sealing ring 694A may contact the rear side portion 614B and the base outer wall structure 619. The sealing ring 694A may also create a seal that prevents foam from escaping during assembly. The sealing ring 694A may be a single ring concentric around the axis of the outer tube 694. The sealing ring 694A may also include multiple rings or be non-circular.

[0124] like Fig. 22 As shown, the main pipe 682 and the outer pipe 694 can be joined to form and produce the drain plug assembly 680. The main pipe 682 and the outer pipe 694 can pass through the rear side portion 614B, the base inner wall structure 618 and the base outer wall structure 619. The main pipe 682 and the outer pipe 694 can be joined to each other in a cooperative manner to produce the drain plug assembly 680 of the insulated container 600. The main pipe 682 can be first installed using a rectangular assembly having a flat portion 682A on the main pipe 682, and the flat portion 682A cooperates with the rectangular openings in the rear side portion 614B and the inner wall 618 of the base 602. The rectangular assembly 682A can prevent the drain plug assembly 680 from rotating relative to the base 602. Then, the outer pipe 694 can be screwed onto the main pipe 682. Next, the external threaded connection 684 of the main pipe 682 can be engaged with the internal threaded connection 698 on the outer pipe 694. Then, the ratchet key 683 and the ratchet teeth 697 can engage and ratchet the main tube 682 and the outer tube 694 together. The outer tube 694 can include a flat head structure 699 to allow a tool to tighten the outer tube 694 into the main tube 682. The flat head structure 699 can be any polygonal shape with one or more flat sides, such as a square, pentagon, hexagon or other polygonal shape. The flat head structure 699 can also include curved sides. The flat head structure 699 can be any shape with one or more flat sides. The outer tube 694 can have a bottom out feature with a specific length, which prevents the threaded connection between the main tube 682 and the outer tube 694 and abuts against the inner wall / face 618 of the base 602. The bottom out feature sets the distance between the inner wall 618 and the outer wall 619 of the base 602.

[0125] The ratchet feature of the drain plug assembly 680 can consist of ratchet teeth 697 on the outer tube 694 and one or more ratchet keys 683 (or pawls) on the main tube 682, with the one or more ratchet keys 683 engaging the ratchet teeth 697. As the outer tube 694 is screwed onto the main tube 682, the ratchet keys 683 of the main tube 682 engage the ratchet teeth 697 on the outer tube 694. The engagement of the ratchet keys 683 and the ratchet teeth 697 allows the main tube 682 to continuously rotate and move in only one direction (the closing direction) while preventing movement in the opposite direction (the opening direction). The ratchet teeth 697 can be uniform but asymmetrical, with each tooth having a moderate slope on one edge and a steeper slope on the other edge. When the ratchet teeth 697 are moved in the unrestricted (i.e., closing) direction, the ratchet key 683 easily slides up and over the gently angled edges of the ratchet teeth 697, with the pressure of the connection forcing the ratchet key 683 (perhaps with an audible "click") into the recesses between the ratchet teeth 697 as the ratchet key 683 passes over the tip of each ratchet tooth 697. However, when the ratchet teeth 697 are moved in the opposite (opening) direction, the ratchet key 683 will catch against the steeply angled edge of the first ratchet tooth 697 that the ratchet key 683 encounters, thereby locking the ratchet key 683 against the ratchet teeth 697 and preventing any further movement in that direction.

[0126] When the main tube 682 is fully threaded into the outer tube 694, the main tube rim 681 can engage the rear portion 614B and the gasket 686 can engage the base interior wall structure 618. The gasket 686 can prevent liquid from escaping the insulated container 600 between the drain plug assembly 680 and the cooler base 602. The gasket 686 can also prevent foam from escaping during the assembly process.

[0127] FIG. 24A to FIG. 33 Another example insulated container 700 is shown according to one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 24A to FIG. 33 In the embodiments of the present invention, similar reference numerals in the "7xx" series of reference numerals are used to refer to features, rather than as in Figure 1A / Figure 1B / Figure 1C The "1xx" used in the embodiments of Figure 3A / Figure 3B / Figure 3C "2xx" as used in the embodiments of Fig. 7A / Figure 7B "4xx" as used in the embodiments, or as in FIG. 10A to FIG. 23 The "6xx" feature used in the embodiment of the present invention can be similar to the "1xx", "2xx", "4xx" or "6xx" feature. Figure 1A / Figure 1B / Figure 1C , Figure 3A / Figure 3B / Figure 3C , Fig. 7A / Figure 7B and FIG. 10A to FIG. 23 Certain features of the insulated container 700 described with reference to the insulated container 100, 200, 400, or 600 may be described in less detail, or may not be described at all. Figures 1A to 23 Any features described with respect to insulated containers 100, 200, 400, and 600 may be utilized with insulated container 700.

[0128] Fig.24A A front view of the insulated container 700 is depicted. Fig. 24B and Fig.24D A side view of insulated container 700 is depicted. Fig.24C A rear view of the insulated container 700 is depicted. Fig.24E A top view of the insulated container 700 is shown. Fig.24F A bottom perspective view of the insulated container 700 is shown. Figure 24G A front perspective view of the insulated container 700 is shown.

[0129] In one example, the insulated container 700 may include a base portion 702 and a lid 704, and in some examples, the lid 704 may be non-destructively removably coupled to the base portion 702. The base portion 702 may be an insulating structure that forms an interior space for containing contents or liquids. In some examples, the shape of the base portion 702 may be cubic or approximately cubic. In yet other examples, the shape of the base portion 702 may be approximately cylindrical, or may have a generally rectangular cross-section. Various other shapes may be used without departing from the present invention.

[0130] The base portion 702 may include a first end portion 706 having a bottom surface 708 (eg, Fig.24F ). Bottom surface 708 can be configured to support the insulated container on a surface such as a table, the ground, a vehicle cargo bed, a boat deck, etc.

[0131] The base portion 702 also includes a second end 710 that defines an opening (at Fig.11), the opening can be used to access the interior space of the insulated container. When the insulated container 700 is in use (for example, when the insulated container 700 is in a closed configuration), the opening can be covered by the lid 704. The base portion 702 can also include a plurality of side portions 714 connected to the bottom surface 708, and the plurality of side portions 714 define a space for receiving contents in the insulated container 700. The side portions 714 can be arranged so that the side portions 714 extend generally vertically from the bottom surface 708. The plurality of side portions 714 can include: a front side portion 714A; a rear side portion 714B, opposite the front side portion 714A; and, two lateral side portions 714C, between the front side portion 714A and the rear side portion 714B.

[0132] In some examples, one or more side pocket handles 790 can be disposed in one or more side portions 714 (or other areas of the base portion 702). The side pocket handles 790 can be integrally formed with the base portion 702 and can generally be undercuts or cutouts formed in the side portions 714 of the base 702. Fig. 10B and Fig. 10D The undercut or cutout (shown in FIG. 1 ) forming the side pocket handle 790 may include a recess that extends along substantially all or most of the length of the side portion 714. This may provide for ease of manufacturing the base 702 with an integrally formed handle 790. In some examples, the side pocket handle 790 may be flush with the outer surface of the base 702 to reduce the risk of breakage.

[0133] As discussed above, the insulated container 700 can be configured to contain, store, carry, etc. a certain volume of contents or possibly a liquid. In some examples, the insulated container 700 can be configured to store approximately 60 liters (approximately 63.4 quarts) or 48 liters (approximately 50.7 quarts). In some examples, the insulated container 700 can be configured to store between twenty-two (22) quarts and twenty-eight (28) quarts of contents. In some examples, the insulated container 700 can be configured to store approximately twenty-four (24) quarts of contents. In other examples, the insulated container 700 can be configured to store at least twenty-two (22) quarts of contents, or the insulated container can be configured to store at least twenty-eight (28) quarts of contents, etc. In still other examples, the insulated container 700 can be configured to store approximately sixteen (16) quarts of contents, twenty-four (24) quarts of contents, thirty-six (36) quarts to thirty-eight (38) quarts of contents, or forty-eight (48) quarts to fifty-eight (58) quarts of contents. In still other examples, the insulated container 700 can be configured to store between approximately fourteen (14) quarts and approximately forty-five twenty-eight (45) quarts of contents. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container 700 can be configured to store materials in a solid, liquid, or gaseous state, or combinations thereof, without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein.

[0134] In at least some examples, the insulated container 700 (as well as various other containers described herein) can be sized to accommodate the volume of the contents described above. For example, the insulated container 700 can be at least seventeen (17) inches tall, at least sixteen (16) inches wide, and at least fourteen (14) inches deep. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container 700 can be configured in different sizes (i.e., height, width, and depth) without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein.

[0135] As previously discussed, the insulated container 700 includes a lid 704. In some examples, the lid 704 can be connected to the base 702 in a closed configuration using a press fit. Additionally or alternatively, other fastening systems or devices can be used to secure the lid 704 to the base. Fig.24A and Figure 24G As shown, the insulated container 700 may include a latching device 720 and a retainer at the base 702 on the front of the container to secure the lid 704 in a closed position. In some examples, the lid 704 can be configured to remain secured or locked in a closed position using the latching device 720. The latching device 720 can be various types of latches, including latches having a latch portion and a retainer portion on the base 702, as well as various other types of latches. The insulated container 700 may include a latching device as described above and in Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 3A , Figure 4A , Figure 5A , Figure 5C , Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C Any latching devices and retainers specifically shown in .

[0136] In such Figure 24G In other configurations shown, the insulated container 700 may include a lid 704 and a base 702, the lid 704 and the base 702 forming at least one corner lifting flange 792 to facilitate easy grasping of the lid for opening. In other examples, the insulated container 700 may include multiple corner lifting flanges 792. In some examples, the lifting flange 792 may be formed by an integrally formed portion of the corner of the lid 704 and an integrally formed portion of the front corner at the top of the base 702. In still other configurations, the insulated container 700 may include a front lifting flange 791 that is integrally formed into the base 702. The front lifting flange 791 may be integrally formed at the top of the base 702. The lifting flange 791 may be configured to provide an easily accessible area to the insulated container 700 to allow an individual to grasp the lid 704 for easy opening (i.e., one-handed operation).

[0137] In some examples, the lid 704 can be hinged so that the lid 704 is connected to the base 702 at a hinge (removably or permanently) and can rotate about the hinge. The hinge can be one of various types of hinges, including a continuous piano hinge, a double hinge, a ball joint hinge, a living hinge, etc. The hinge can allow the lid 704 to be opened and rotated away from the base portion 702 to allow access (e.g., via an opening) to the interior space defined by the base portion 702. That is, the hinge can facilitate the lid 704 to rotate from a closed configuration of the insulated container 700 (e.g., when the lid 704 is in place to cover the interior space formed by the base 702) to an open configuration (e.g., when the lid 704 does not cover the interior space formed by the base 702), and vice versa. In some examples, the insulated container 700 is configured with at least one hinge. In another example, the insulated container is configured with multiple hinges. In still other configurations, the hinge includes a first portion that is integrally formed in the cover 704 and a second portion that is integrally formed in the base 702 .

[0138] In the examples described herein, the base 702 and the cover 704 may include an outer surface or shell that surrounds and encloses the insulating portion, such as Figure 1C and Figure 5AAs shown and described. The housing is generally formed of various materials, such as one or more metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics or fiber-reinforced materials. In some examples, the housing can be formed of a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic olefin elastomer (TPO), polypropylene or polyethylene with a rubber agent, and the plastic material is molded to form both the base 702 and the cover 704 parts. Thermoplastic olefin elastomer (TPO) is composed of polypropylene, polyethylene or other polyolefins as hard segments and rubber components as soft segments, such as ethylene propylene rubber (EPM or EPDM). In some examples, the insulation part is formed by an insulation material exhibiting low thermal conductivity. For example, the insulation part can be formed by polymer foam, such as polyurethane foam (or filled with polymer foam). Without departing from the present invention, additional or other insulation materials can be used. In some examples, the base 702 and the cover 704 parts are formed using an injection molding process as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art (not shown). However, various other types of molding or other manufacturing processes (eg, rotational molding, stamping, casting, forging, blow molding, etc.) may be used to form the insulated container without departing from the invention.

[0139] The base portion 702 may include a first end 706 having a bottom surface 708. The bottom surface 708 may be configured to support the insulated container 700 on a surface such as a table, the ground, a vehicle cargo bed, a boat deck, etc., and may include a plurality of feet 713, such as Fig.24F The plurality of feet 713 may include four separate feet positioned around the perimeter of the bottom surface 708. In another example embodiment, the bottom surface 708 of the insulated container 700 may include one or more lateral feet, as described above and in Fig.19 . The plurality of feet 713 can be configured to provide a non-slip or no-slip surface and can be configured to keep the insulated container 700 elevated off the ground. In another example, the plurality of feet 713 can be configured to reduce friction with the ground or surface so that the insulated container can be moved more easily (i.e., the insulated container can slide easily or be pushed across the ground easily) while the insulated container is on the ground. The plurality of feet 713 can be separated and parallel, thereby creating and providing an air gap between the bottom surface 708 of the insulated container and the ground. The plurality of feet 713 can be constructed of rubber, foam, plastic or other suitable materials. In another embodiment, the plurality of feet 713 can be molded into the base 702 with an alternative surface treatment or texture in a mold for the plurality of feet 713. In yet other embodiments, the bottom surface 708 can include a logo or name of a company or manufacturer of the insulated container, which is embossed, integrally molded or pressed into the shell.

[0140] In other examples, the insulated container 700 may include a handle assembly 760, such as Fig.25 , Fig.26 and FIG. 27A to FIG. 27C Specifically shown in . FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C A side view of the insulated container 700 is shown showing the handle assembly 760 in various stowed and extended configurations. Fig.13 A side view of the insulated container 700 is shown in a tilted configuration and the handle assembly 760 in an extended configuration. Fig.25 A bottom rear perspective view of the insulated container 700 is shown with the handle assembly 760 in a stowed configuration. Fig.26 A top rear perspective view of the insulated container 700 is shown with the handle assembly 760 in a stowed configuration. FIG. 27A to FIG. 27C 7 shows a component diagram of the handle assembly 760. Specifically, Fig.27A A front view of the handle assembly 760 is shown. Fig.27B A rear view of the handle assembly 760 is shown, and Fig.27C A rear perspective view of the pull handle assembly 760 is shown.

[0141] Fig.25 , Fig.26 and FIG. 27A to FIG. 27C A handle assembly 760 is shown that enables a user to ergonomically manipulate the insulated container 700. The handle assembly 760 can assist the end opposite the wheel 772 in leaving the container's resting surface when the insulated container 700 is tilted into a rolling position. The handle assembly 760 can be a telescoping handle design with a three-level handle / arm configuration. In the first level, the handle assembly 760 can be in a stowed (or retracted or nested) configuration. In the second level, the handle assembly 760 can be in a partially extended configuration. In the third level, the handle assembly 760 can be in a fully extended configuration. The handle assembly 760 can have one or more locking mechanisms, one or more locking mechanisms for a stowed configuration, a partially extended configuration, and / or a fully extended configuration.

[0142] The handle assembly 760 may be connected to the side portion 714 of the base 702, and in particular, the rear portion 714B of the base 702. The handle assembly 760 may be arranged on the same rear portion 714B that includes the wheel assembly 770. With the handle assembly 760 in an extended configuration, a user may grasp the handle 762 to tilt and lift the front portion 714A upward, which transfers the weight of the insulated container 700 to the wheel 772 and allows the user to pull the insulated container 700. The handle assembly 760 may have an extended configuration that enables the user to pull the container 700. The handle assembly 760 may have a stowed configuration in which the handle assembly 760 may be flush with the top of the insulated container 700. When the handle assembly 760 is in the stowed configuration, the upper surface 763 of the handle 762 may be substantially parallel to the upper surface of the lid 704. When pull handle assembly 760 is in the stowed configuration, upper surface 763 of pull handle 762 may also be aligned with or positioned below an upper surface of cover 704 .

[0143] The handle assembly 760 may be attached to the rear portion 714B. The handle assembly 760 may include one or more brackets 766A, 766B, and the one or more brackets 766A, 766B attach the handle assembly 760 to the rear portion 714B. The handle assembly 760 may include one or more brackets to attach the handle assembly to the rear portion 714B, such as one bracket, two brackets, three brackets, or four or more brackets. The one or more brackets may include a first bracket 766A (or upper bracket) and a second bracket 766B (or lower bracket), the first bracket 766A is attached to the top portion of the handle assembly 760, and the second bracket 766B is attached to the lower portion of the handle assembly 760. Fig.25 and Fig.26 As shown, both the first bracket 766A and the second bracket 766B can be connected to the lower arm 764C, and in particular attach the lower arm 764C and the handle assembly 760 to the rear portion 714B. Before the insulation (foam) is filled into the base 702, the bracket 766 can be mounted to the mounting point on the rear portion 714B of the base 702.

[0144] Additionally, one or more of the brackets 766A, 766B may be a U-shaped bracket that fits around the exterior of the lower arm 764C of the handle assembly 760 to hold the lower arm 764C and the handle assembly 760 against the rear portion 714B of the insulated container 700. Fig.27A , Fig.27B and Fig.27CAs shown, the second bracket or lower bracket 766B may include a bracket housing for the lower arm 764C of the handle assembly 760 to hold the lower arm 764 and the handle assembly 760 against the rear portion 714B of the insulated container. Without departing from the embodiments of the present invention, the brackets 766A, 766B may be various other shapes. Additionally, the brackets 766A, 766B may be various widths and lengths. The brackets 766A, 766B may include one or more fasteners 767 on each side of the brackets 766A, 766B, and the one or more fasteners 767 connect the brackets 766A, 766B to the rear portion 714B of the insulated container 700.

[0145] As above (specifically in Fig.16A , Fig. 16B , Fig.17A , Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C As described and shown in the drawings, handle assembly 760 may include a telescopic feature. Handle assembly 760 may include an upper arm, a middle arm, and a lower arm 764C. The upper arm may be nested inside the middle arm and may slide inside the middle arm. Additionally, the middle arm may be nested inside the lower arm 764C and may slide inside the lower arm 764C. This nesting and sliding of the upper arm, the middle arm, and the lower arm 764C may produce the telescopic feature of handle assembly 760.

[0146] Fig.27A , Fig.27B and Fig.27C Various component views of the pull handle assembly 760 are specifically shown. Fig.17A The handle assembly 760 is specifically shown from the front view. The handle assembly 760 may include one or more locking mechanisms, such as an upper locking mechanism and a lower locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be installed between the arms to latch and lock the handle assembly 760 in a stowed configuration and / or a fully extended configuration. Specifically, the upper locking mechanism may be installed between the upper arm and the middle arm. The lower locking mechanism may be installed between the middle arm and the lower arm 764C. A release button 768 may be connected to the locking mechanism and act as an actuator of the locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be released with the release button 768 on the handle 762. The locking mechanism may include various components known and used in the art for telescopic handles, such as actuators, hinges, spring-loaded bearings, bushings, locking pins, locking holes, etc.

[0147] like Fig.25 , Fig.26 and FIG. 27A to FIG. 27CAs shown, handle assembly 760 may include handle 762. A user may grasp handle 762 to extend handle assembly 760 to an extended configuration. A user may grasp handle 762 in the extended configuration to tilt and lift front portion 714A upward, which transfers the weight of insulated container 700 to wheels 772 and allows the user to pull insulated container 700.

[0148] The handle 762 may include a handle bumper (as previously described in detail above and in Fig.18 ). A handle bumper may be located on each of the pull arms of the pull handle 762. The handle bumper may be used to prevent wear of the handle grip 763 on the pull handle 762 when / if the insulated container 700 is tipped over. The handle bumper may include a raised portion that extends circumferentially around the pull handle 762 adjacent to the upper pull arm and / or around the upper pull arm. The raised portion may extend circumferentially around the pull handle 762 and / or the pull arm partially or completely.

[0149] The handle assembly 760 components can be formed from a polymer material, which can be a filled or unfilled polymer. For example, the polymer material can be PC-ABS, polyethylene or other similar materials. In addition, the handle assembly 760 components can be manufactured by polymer processing techniques, such as by various molding and casting techniques and / or other known techniques. Alternatively or optionally, the handle assembly 760 can be formed from a metal material, such as an aluminum alloy, a magnesium alloy or other metal material having a density less than 3g / cc. As another option, the insulated container 700 components, such as the lid, the body, the lid support member and the handle assembly, can include a structural foam having a composite polymer material, the structural foam having a low-density foam core and a higher-density polymer surface layer.

[0150] In other examples, the insulated container 700 may include a rear wheel assembly 770, such as Fig.28 , Fig.29A , Fig.29B , Fig.29C , Fig.30 and Fig.31 Specifically shown in . Fig.28 A bottom perspective view of the insulated container 700 is shown, showing the wheel assembly 770. Fig.29A and Fig.29B A view of the wheel assembly 770 and anti-rotation mount 778 for the insulated container 700 is shown with portions of the handle assembly 760 removed. Fig.29C A rear cross-sectional view of the shaft attachment and anti-rotation mount 778 of the wheel assembly 770 for the insulated container 700 is shown. Fig.30A side perspective view of the wheel recesses 773 on the base 702 of the insulated container 700 is shown, wherein each wheel 772 may be secured into the base 702 .

[0151] The insulated container 700 may include a wheel assembly 770 including a pair of wheels 772 to assist a user in easily moving the insulated container 700. The wheel assembly 770 may include a tire 771 and a wheel 772, wherein each wheel 772 may be mounted to the base 702 using an axle 774. The wheel assembly 770 may include a single axle 774 for two wheels 772 or a double axle 774 having an axle for each wheel 772. The tire 771 may be made of polyurethane foam having a hardness of approximately 80 Shore A and a density of 0.75 KG / LT. The wheel 772 may be made of a rigid material such as a glass-filled nylon material. The tire 771 may be overmolded, stretched, or gripped over the wheel 772. The wheel 772 may include ribs or other gripping structures on the inner rim of the wheel 772 to help grip the foam tire 771.

[0152] Each wheel assembly 770 and wheel 772 can be mounted to the base 702. More specifically, each wheel 772 can be mounted to the rear portion 714B adjacent to the bottom surface 708 of the insulated container 700. Each wheel 772 can be fixed to the wheel recess 773 on the base portion 702 and the rear portion 714B. Each wheel 772 can be fixed in the recess 773 using at least one spring retaining ring and connected to at least one shaft 774. Additionally, the wheel 772 and tire 771 can extend to the rear beyond the handle assembly 760, thereby providing additional end protection to the handle assembly 760. Additionally, when the insulated container 700 is placed flat on the ground, the wheel 772 and tire 771 can be higher than the ground. The tire 771 can also include a flat tread profile, which is used to improve sandy / soft terrain performance. The wheel 772 can also include a single-walled hub that provides lighter weight. Additionally, the flatter and thinner tread profile of tire 771 may provide a lightweight wheel.

[0153] Fig.29A and Fig.29BSpecifically illustrated is an exemplary embodiment of a wheel assembly 770 showing a wheel 772 and a shaft 774 for use with an insulated container 700. The wheel assembly 770 can include one or more ball bearings on the shaft 774 and a spacer 777B that sets the distance between the bearings. The spacer 777B can be made of a rigid polypropylene material and can be used to set the position of the wheel 772. The wheel 772, spacer 777B, and wheel eyelet 776 can be retained along the axis of the shaft 774 by a spring retaining ring along the end of the shaft 774. The spring retaining ring can be radially assembled around the end of the shaft 774 to hold the shaft 774 through the wheel 772 and to hold the shaft 774 within the base 702.

[0154] Additionally, the wheel assembly 770 may include a wheel eyelet 776, as shown above. Fig. 20A and Fig. 20B Detailed and shown in . The wheel eyelet 776 can be located between the wheel recess 773 and the spacer 777B. The wheel eyelet 776 can also be positioned around the shaft 774 and can provide a seal between the wheel recess 773 and the inner portion of the base 702. The wheel eyelet 776 can be a rubber / non-rigid material (such as EPDM rubber). The wheel eyelet 776 can be used to prevent water or other materials from entering the insulated center of the base 702. The wheel eyelet 776 can be a bushing or eyelet to absorb shock or impact force on the wheel 772, and absorb shock and cushion the shaft 774. By absorbing shock, the wheel eyelet 776 can allow the shaft 774 to rotate when high forces are applied to the wheel 772. For example, during a drop test simulating a fall of the insulated container 700 and the insulated container 700 being loaded with approximately 75 pounds, the wheel assembly 770 will not be damaged due to the wheel eyelet 776. All the forces from the drop can be concentrated on the shaft 774, rather than on the wheels 772. The forces from the drop can be absorbed and / or dissipated by the wheel eyelets 776, thereby reducing and preventing strong shocks from reaching the base 702, shaft 774, shaft brackets 778 and other key components. The drop test can include dropping the insulated container 700 from approximately one meter off the ground and be completed under cold, hot and room temperature conditions. The insulated container 700 can be dropped in multiple orientations, including being dropped on the back where the impact force is applied to both wheels 772, and being dropped on the corner of the wheel where the force is applied to a single wheel 772.

[0155] Fig.29A , Fig.29B and Fig.29C Specifically illustrated is an exemplary embodiment of a shaft bracket 778 for preventing the shaft 774 from rotating and coming out. Fig.29A and Fig.29BA shaft bracket 778 is shown with the handle assembly 760 hidden. The shaft bracket 778 can be an anti-rotation mount against the base 702. Each shaft 774 can have at least one shaft bracket 778. Additionally, each shaft 774 can have multiple shaft brackets 778, such as two, three, or four shaft brackets 778. One or more shaft brackets 778 can be covered from view by the handle assembly 760. The shaft bracket 778 can be attached to the shaft 774 with a fastener 779. The shaft 774 can include a flat section 774A with a fastener attachment point 779A. The flat section 774A of the shaft 774 can be compressed and permanently mated with the flat section 778A of the shaft bracket 778. The shaft bracket 778 can include additional flat and mating features 778B that contact and hold the shaft bracket 778 against the base 702. These flat sections 778A may prevent the shaft 774 from rotating about the base 702 by keeping the shaft 774 stationary and in a permanent position in the base 702 .

[0156] Fig.30 The wheel recess 773 of the base 702 of the insulated container 700 is shown. Fig.30 As shown, the wheel recess 773 can include molded radial ribs 773A extending from the shaft hole / opening 774A. The radial ribs 773A can create strength within the base 702 for retaining the shaft 774 and the wheel assembly 770. Any number of radial ribs 773 can be used to help create strength within the base 702 and the insulated container 700.

[0157] In other examples, the insulated container 700 may include a drain plug assembly 780, such as Fig.24C , Fig.25 , Fig.31 , Fig.32 and Fig.33 Specifically shown in . Fig.31 A side cross-sectional view of a drain plug assembly 780 for use with an insulated container 700 is shown. Fig.32 An exploded view of a drain plug assembly 780 for use with an insulated container 700 is shown. Fig.33 Additional exploded views of a drain plug assembly 780 having a drain plug 787 for use with an insulated container 700 are shown.

[0158] like Figure 31 to Figure 33As shown, the drain plug assembly 780 may include a main tube 782, an outer tube 794, a gasket 786, and a drain plug 787. The user may utilize the drain plug 787 to screw in or out the drain plug assembly 780 to drain the insulated container 700. The drain plug assembly 780 may be positioned and installed in a through hole in the wall of the base portion 702. In the illustrated embodiment, the drain plug assembly 780 may be positioned on the rear portion 714B adjacent to the bottom surface 708 of the insulated container 700. The drain plug assembly 780 may be installed and positioned in a drain plug insert 709, which provides a protected drain plug assembly 780. The drain plug assembly 780 may include a ratchet feature, wherein the main tube 782 (or inner tube) is keyed so that when the main tube 782 is screwed into the outer tube 794, the main tube 782 cannot rotate / open.

[0159] The main pipe 782 may include a drain through hole portion 785 having one or more ratchet keys 783 on a first end and a main pipe rim 781 on another end opposite the first end. The drain through hole portion 785 may include an internal thread 785A that engages with an external thread 788 on a drain plug 787. The main pipe 782 may also have an external thread connection 784 that is located between the main pipe rim 781 and the ratchet key 783. The main pipe 782 may also include a washer 786. The washer 786 may provide compression between the main pipe 782 and the inner wall 781 of the base 702. The washer 786 may include a radial feature 786A that helps place the washer 786 against the main pipe rim 781 and the inner wall 718 of the base 702. The washer 786 may be a separate component, or the washer 786 may be molded into the main pipe 782. The washer 786 can be a softer material, such as silicone, while the main tube 782 is a hard material. The washer 786 can, for example, have a hardness of 40 Shore A. The outer tube 794 can include an internal threaded connection 798. The outer tube 794 can also include an outer tube edge 795 and ratchet teeth 797 on the same end. The ratchet teeth 797 can be located on the inner portion of the outer tube 794. The outer tube 794 can also include a sealing ring 794A, which is arranged against the outer tube edge 795 of the outer tube 794. The sealing ring 794A can be seated between the outer tube edge 795 and the rear side portion 714B and the base outer wall structure 719. The sealing ring 794A can also produce a seal that prevents foam from escaping during assembly. The sealing ring 794A can be a single ring concentric with the axis of the outer tube 794. The sealing ring 794A can also be multiple rings or non-circular.

[0160] like Fig.31As shown, the main tube 782 and the outer tube 794 can be joined to form and produce the drain plug assembly 780. The main tube 782 and the outer tube 794 can pass through the rear portion 714B, the base inner wall structure 718 and the base outer wall structure 719. The main tube 782 and the outer tube 794 can be joined to each other in a cooperative manner to produce the drain plug assembly 780 of the insulated container 700. The main tube 782 can be first installed using a rectangular feature having a flat portion 782A on the main tube 782, and the flat portion 782A cooperates with the rectangular openings in the rear portion 714B and the inner wall 718 of the base 702. The rectangular assembly can prevent the drain plug assembly 780 from rotating relative to the base 702. Then, the outer tube 794 can be screwed onto the main tube 782. Next, the external threaded connection 784 of the main tube 782 can be engaged with the internal threaded connection 798 on the outer tube 794. Then, the ratchet key 783 and the ratchet teeth 797 can engage and ratchet the main tube 782 and the outer tube 794 together. The outer tube 794 can include a flat head structure 799 to allow a tool to tighten the outer tube 794 into the main tube 782. The flat head structure 799 can be any polygonal shape with one or more flat sides, such as a square, pentagon, hexagon or other polygonal shape. The flat head structure 799 can also include curved sides. The flat head structure 799 can be any shape with one or more flat sides. The outer tube 794 can have a bottom out feature with a specific length, which prevents the threaded connection between the main tube 782 and the outer tube 794 and abuts against the inner wall / face 718 of the base 702. The bottom out feature sets the distance between the inner wall 718 and the outer wall 719 of the base 702.

[0161] The ratchet feature of the drain plug assembly 780 can consist of ratchet teeth 797 on the outer tube 794 and one or more ratchet keys 783 (or pawls) on the main tube 782, with the one or more ratchet keys 783 engaging the ratchet teeth 797. As the outer tube 794 is screwed onto the main tube 782, the ratchet keys 783 of the main tube 782 engage the ratchet teeth 797 on the outer tube 794. The engagement of the ratchet keys 783 and the ratchet teeth 797 allows the main tube 782 to continuously rotate in only one direction (the closing direction) while preventing movement in the opposite direction (the opening direction). The ratchet teeth 797 can be uniform but asymmetrical, with each tooth having a moderate slope on one edge and a steeper slope on the other edge. When the ratchet teeth 797 are moved in the unrestricted (i.e., closing) direction, the ratchet key 783 easily slides up and over the gently sloped edge of the ratchet teeth 797, with the pressure of the connection forcing the ratchet key 783 (perhaps with an audible "click") into the recesses between the ratchet teeth 797 as the ratchet key 783 passes over the tip of each ratchet tooth 797. However, when the ratchet teeth 797 are moved in the opposite (opening) direction, the ratchet key 783 will catch against the steeply sloped edge of the first ratchet tooth 797 that the ratchet key 783 encounters, thereby locking the ratchet key 783 against the ratchet teeth 797 and preventing any further movement in that direction.

[0162] When the main tube 782 is fully threaded into the outer tube 794, the main tube rim 781 can engage the rear portion 714B and the gasket 786 can engage the base interior wall structure 718. The gasket 786 can prevent liquid from escaping the insulated container 700 between the drain plug assembly 780 and the cooler base 702. The gasket 786 can also prevent foam from escaping during the assembly process.

[0163] like Fig.33 As shown, the drain plug 787 may include external threads 788. When the drain plug 787 is screwed into the drain plug assembly 780 and the main pipe 782, the external threads 788 on the drain plug 787 may engage with the internal threads 785A of the drain through hole portion 785 of the drain plug assembly 780. Additionally, a drain plug cap 789 and a gasket may be included on the top portion of the drain plug 787. The drain plug cap 789 may include features for assisting a user in tightening and loosening the drain plug 787 from the drain plug assembly 780. Additionally, the drain plug 787 may include various gaskets to ensure a watertight seal when the drain plug 787 is screwed onto the main pipe 782 and the drain plug assembly 780.

[0164] FIG. 34A to FIG. 34C and FIG. 35A to FIG. 35E Another example insulated container 800 is shown according to one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 34A to FIG. 34C and FIG. 35A to FIG. 35EIn the embodiments of the present invention, similar reference numerals in the "8xx" series of reference numerals are used to refer to features, rather than as in Figure 1A / Figure 1B / Figure 1C The "1xx" used in the embodiments of Figure 3A / Figure 3B / Figure 3C "2xx" as used in the embodiments of Fig. 7A / Figure 7B "4xx" as used in the embodiments of FIG. 10A to FIG. 23 "6xx" as used in the embodiments of FIG. 24A to FIG. 33 The "7xx" feature may be similar to the "1xx", "2xx", "4xx" or "6xx" features. Figure 1A / Figure 1B / Figure 1C , Figure 3A / Figure 3B / Figure 3C , Fig. 7A / Figure 7B and FIG. 10A to FIG. 33 Certain features of the insulated container 700 described above with reference to the insulated container 100, 200, 400, 600, or 700 may be described in less detail, or may not be described at all. Figures 1A to 33 Any features described with respect to insulated containers 100 , 200 , 400 , 600 , and 700 may be utilized with insulated container 800 .

[0165] like FIG. 34A to FIG. 34C As shown, the insulated container 800 may include a corner locking bracket 830. The corner locking bracket 830 may be installed and / or attached to the insulated container 800 to lock the insulated container 800 in a closed / locked configuration. In one embodiment, the corner locking bracket 830 may be a corner bracket kit. In one example, the corner locking bracket 830 may include a container bracket 832, a lid bracket 834, a plurality of fasteners 836, and a lock 838. The container bracket 832 and the lid bracket 834 may include a lock hole 833 and one or more fastener holes 835. As shown in FIG. Fig.34B As shown, the container bracket 832 and the lid bracket 834 can be attached to the corners of the insulated container 800. The container bracket 832 and the lid bracket 834 can be attached to the insulated container 800 using one or more fasteners 836 passing through one or more fastener holes 835. Fig.34BAs shown, the container holder 832 can be attached to the corner of the base 802 along the top side portion 802B of the base 802, and the cover holder 834 can be attached to the corner of the bottom side portion 804B of the cover 804. When the cover 804 is in a closed and fixed configuration, the container holder 832 and the cover holder 834 match the lock hole 833 from the container holder 832 and the lock hole 833 from the cover holder 834 together, thereby allowing the lock 838 to be inserted into the lock hole 833 of both. The corner lock bracket 830 can include a metal gasket that is molded into the corner lock bracket to strengthen the lock hole 833. Additionally, one or more screw bosses can be hidden in the base 802 and / or the cover 804. One or more screw bosses can include a recess for fastener / screw alignment, wherein one or more of the plurality of fasteners 836 can penetrate the surface of the base 802 and / or the cover 804 before the fastener 836 can engage the screw boss.

[0166] like FIG. 35A to FIG. 35E As shown, an accessory 840 such as a tray or basket 840 or a container separator plate 844 can be positioned or stored in the bottom of the interior space of the insulated container 800, and / or can be configured to rest at the top of the interior space. In some examples, one or more container separator plates 844 can be located in the interior space of the insulated container 800 to separate the contents within the insulated container 800. In some examples, the tray or basket 840 can include a lip 842 around the perimeter of the tray, which allows the tray 840 to be suspended from the edge of the opening 812 while remaining within the interior space of the insulated container 800. This configuration allows the lid 804 to be configured in a closed and fixed position, thereby sealing the interior space while the tray or basket 840 and / or container separator plates 844 are fixed in place inside / within the insulated container 800.

[0167] In other example embodiments, the insulated container may be an injection molded container. For example, portions or components of the insulated container may be formed in multiple pieces using an example welding process, such as a lid may be formed in two pieces. An example welding process may use adhesives, ultrasonic welding techniques, or electromagnetic bonding (such as ) for use with portions or components of the insulated containers disclosed herein. For example, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,984,738 (the disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 7,984,738 is incorporated herein by reference), an electromagnetic welding element preform can be a structure composed of plastic and magnetic particles. When an energized high-frequency induction coil is placed near the joint, the particles act as receptors for electromagnetic radiation, and the resulting induced eddy currents cause the element to be heated sufficiently to melt the preform and adjacent plastic, thereby melting the joint. The metal particles remain within the molten plastic part.

[0168] In one example, an airtight seal can be formed between two pieces forming a lid and two pieces forming a lower shell of an insulated container. The exemplary welding process can provide excellent plastic welding for demanding applications. For example, electromagnetic bonding (such as ) welding process uses high frequency energy coupled with an electromagnetic base material to precisely transfer heat to the bond line to provide excellent welds to nearly all thermoplastic materials. A hermetic seal can be formed completely around the perimeter of the insulated container where the weld is located, which will ensure that moisture, etc., cannot deteriorate the foam and the interior portion of the insulated container.

[0169] FIG. 36A to FIG. 36C An exemplary electromagnetic bonding (such as ) welding process 900, the exemplary electromagnetic bonding welding process 900 can be used with an insulated container. Fig.36A As shown, a first component 910 (which may be referred to as a tongue) may be welded to a second component 920 (which may also be referred to as a groove) using an electromagnetic base material 930 and a high frequency energy source 932, such as a radio frequency (RF) coil. The parameters for electromagnetic bonding may generally be standard and may be slightly adjusted to meet the needs of a particular design and / or material, similar to the process settings on an injection molding machine.

[0170] In one example, the first component 910 can be in the form of a tongue and the second component 920 can be in the form of a groove to form a tongue and groove joint. The first component 910 can be a cover and the second component 920 can be a base / body. The cover and the base / body can have the same geometry for both the tongue and the groove. The joint on the cover and the base of the insulated container can have the same tongue and groove. There can be additional ribs or geometric structures added to the side of the tongue that guide the tongue in the groove, which can help maintain the component geometry and the electromagnetic base material 930, thereby preventing the electromagnetic base material 930 from leaking at the seam and / or preventing the electromagnetic base material 930 from producing changes in the surface of the surface treatment material. The electromagnetic base material 930 can be placed in the joint between the first component 910 and the second component 920. The first component 910 and the second component 920 can be brought together and placed in a fixture containing a high-frequency energy source 932, which can conform to the weld line geometry.

[0171] Fig.36BAn RF coil 932 is shown that emits precise and focused high frequency energy (RF energy) to the weld location between the first component 910 and the second component 920 and the electromagnetic base material 930. During the joining of the first component 910 and the second component 920, the activated RF coil 932 heats and melts the electromagnetic base material 930, thereby melting the adjoining surfaces. Energy can only be consumed during the actual heating cycle, which is typically between 1 and 30 seconds.

[0172] Fig.36C The final weld of the formed and welded electromagnetic base material 931 between the first component 910 and the second component 920 is shown. After joining the first component 910 and the second component 920, the electromagnetic base material 930 may have filled the joint design gap. The exemplary welding process may have the first component 910 and the second component 920 melted to form a polymer-to-polymer weld. Additionally, although the first component 910 and the second component 920 may be in the form of a tongue and groove joint, other joints and connections are contemplated, such as dovetails, butt joints, pockets, mortises, half lap joints, boxes, half grooves, dowels, etc.

[0173] Refer to above Figures 1A to 36C Any features described above for an insulated container 100, 200, 400, 600, 700, or 800 may be utilized with any of the other insulated containers 100, 200, 400, 600, 700, and 800 even if not specifically described with that insulated container. Thus, certain features of any of the insulated containers 100, 200, 400, 600, 700, or 800 that have been described above with reference to the insulated container 100, 200, 400, 600, 700, or 800 may be described in less detail or may not be described at all with any or all of the other insulated containers 100, 200, 400, 600, 700, and 800.

[0174] Additionally or alternatively, various other venting or pressure regulating arrangements may be used without departing from the invention. For example, a portion of the base may include a material that is permeable to air but does not permit water or other liquids to penetrate. The mesh material may allow venting without permitting liquid contained within the insulated container to escape.

[0175] The insulated containers described herein include various features that ensure that the insulated containers can be manufactured conveniently and efficiently while providing durability and wear resistance. The insulated containers and various integrally molded features, such as side pocket handles, pressure adjustment mechanisms or devices, latching devices, etc., can be advantageous in terms of improving durability and wear resistance.

[0176] The present disclosure is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various examples. However, the purpose served by the present disclosure is to provide examples of various features and concepts related to the present disclosure, rather than to limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that various changes and modifications may be made to the examples described above without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A heat-insulating container, comprising: base; a cover hingedly attached to the base; The base comprises: The side wall structure comprises: a front side wall; a rear side wall opposite to the front side wall; and, two lateral side walls between the front side wall and the rear side wall; a bottom portion connected to a first end of each side wall of the side wall structure, the bottom portion being configured to support the insulated container on a surface; an opening formed at a second end of each side wall of the side wall structure, the second end being opposite the first end of each side wall of the side wall structure, the opening being configured to allow access to an interior space of the insulated container formed by the side wall structure and the bottom portion, wherein the gasket is configured to provide a watertight seal when the lid is in a closed and secured position; and at least one latch device configured to secure the cover when the cover is in a closed position; and A handle assembly is attached to the rear side wall, the handle assembly having a telescopic three-stage arm structure, the telescopic three-stage arm structure is defined by a first stage, a second stage and a third stage, the handle assembly is in a stowed structure at the first stage, the handle assembly is in a partially extended structure at the second stage, and the handle assembly is in a fully extended structure at the third stage, the handle assembly includes an upper arm, a middle arm and a lower arm, the upper arm is nested inside the middle arm and can slide inside the middle arm, and the middle arm is nested inside the lower arm and can slide inside the lower arm, thereby producing the telescopic three-stage arm structure.

2. The thermally insulated container according to claim 1, wherein: The pull handle assembly is attached to the rear side wall using one or more brackets, which are U-shaped brackets that fit around the exterior of the lower arm against the rear side wall.

3. The thermally insulated container according to claim 1, wherein: The cover includes a stepped portion located adjacent to the rear sidewall, the stepped portion including an inset portion from a top surface of the cover.

4. The thermally insulated container according to claim 1, wherein: The handle assembly further includes one or more locking mechanisms for locking the handle assembly in the stowed configuration and the fully extended configuration, wherein an upper locking mechanism is interposed between the upper arm and the middle arm, and a lower locking mechanism is interposed between the middle arm and the lower arm.

5. The thermally insulated container according to claim 4, wherein: The pull handle assembly also includes a release button located on the pull handle, the release button being connected to and actuating the one or more locking mechanisms to lock and release the pull handle assembly between the stowed configuration and the fully extended configuration.

6. The thermally insulated container according to claim 1, wherein: The pull handle assembly includes an extension arm overlap distance, defined as the overlap distance between nested arms when the upper arm, the middle arm, and the lower arm are in the fully extended configuration, the extension arm overlap distance being approximately 70 mm.

7. The thermally insulated container according to claim 1, wherein: The handle assembly includes a handle having one or more handle bumpers including a raised portion extending circumferentially around the handle.

8. The thermally insulated container according to claim 1, further comprising: A corner locking bracket, comprising a container bracket, a lid bracket and a lock, wherein the container bracket is attached to the base and the lid bracket is attached to the lid; wherein the container bracket comprises a first lock hole and the lid bracket comprises a second lock hole, wherein when the lid is in the closed and fixed position, the first lock hole and the second lock hole match together, thereby allowing the lock to be inserted into the first lock hole and the second lock hole.

9. The thermally insulated container according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one latching device further comprises: a latch upper portion, wherein the latch upper portion is pivotally attached to the cover; and a latch lower portion, wherein the latch lower portion is pivotally attached to the latch upper portion, Wherein, the lower portion of the latch further includes an engaging tab, wherein the engagement tab is configured as an engagement retainer, wherein the latch lower portion is formed of a first material and the latch upper portion is formed of a second material, wherein the first material is stiffer than the second material, and Wherein, the retainer is positioned at the front side of the bottom portion of the insulated container.

10. A heat-insulating container, comprising: base; a cover hingedly attached to the base; The base comprises: The side wall structure comprises: a front side wall; a rear side wall opposite to the front side wall; and, two lateral side walls between the front side wall and the rear side wall; a bottom portion connected to a first end of each side wall of the side wall structure, the bottom portion being configured to support the insulated container on a surface; an opening formed at a second end of each side wall of the side wall structure, the second end being opposite the first end of each side wall of the side wall structure, the opening being configured to allow access to an interior space of the insulated container formed by the side wall structure and the bottom portion, wherein the gasket is configured to provide a watertight seal when the lid is in a closed and secured position; and at least one latch device configured to secure the cover when the cover is in a closed position; and a wheel assembly positioned adjacent the rear sidewall, the wheel assembly comprising a pair of wheels on opposite sides of the rear sidewall, each wheel mounted in a wheel covering, an axle connected to an axle bracket, the wheel assembly further comprising a wheel eyelet located between the wheel covering and the axle bracket, the wheel eyelet absorbing shock and cushioning the axle; and a handle assembly attached to the rear sidewall adjacent the bottom portion, the handle assembly having a telescoping three-stage arm configuration defined by a first stage, a second stage, and a third stage, wherein the handle assembly is in a stowed configuration at the first stage, the handle assembly is in a partially extended configuration at the second stage, and the handle assembly is in a fully extended configuration at the third stage, Wherein, when the handle assembly is in the fully extended configuration and the base is tilted, the weight of the insulated container is transferred to the wheels to allow a user to pull and roll the insulated container.

11. The thermally insulated container according to claim 10, wherein: An outer portion of each wheel extends beyond the handle assembly toward the rear sidewall to provide end protection for the insulated container.

12. The thermally insulated container according to claim 10, wherein: When the bottom portion and the base are laid flat on a ground area, each wheel is elevated above the ground area.

13. The thermally insulated container according to claim 10, wherein: The handle assembly includes an upper arm, a middle arm and a lower arm, wherein the upper arm is nested and slidable inside the middle arm, and the middle arm is nested and slidable inside the lower arm, thereby producing the telescopic three-stage arm structure.

14. The thermally insulated container according to claim 13, wherein: The pull handle assembly includes an extension arm overlap distance, defined as the overlap distance between nested arms when the upper arm, the middle arm, and the lower arm are in the fully extended configuration, the extension arm overlap distance being approximately 70 mm.

15. The thermally insulated container according to claim 10, wherein: The at least one latching device further comprises: a latch upper portion, wherein the latch upper portion is pivotally attached to the cover; and a latch lower portion, wherein the latch lower portion is pivotally attached to the latch upper portion, Wherein, the lower portion of the latch further includes an engaging tab, wherein the engagement tab is configured as an engagement retainer, wherein the latch lower portion is formed of a first material and the latch upper portion is formed of a second material, wherein the first material is stiffer than the second material, and Wherein, the retainer is positioned at the front side of the bottom portion of the insulated container.

16. A thermally insulated container, comprising: base; a cover hingedly attached to the base; The base comprises: A side wall structure having: a front side wall; a rear side wall opposite to the front side wall; and two lateral side walls between the front side wall and the rear side wall; a bottom portion connected to a first end of each side wall of the side wall structure, the bottom portion being configured to support the insulated container on a surface; an opening formed at a second end of each side wall of the side wall structure, the second end being opposite the first end of each side wall of the side wall structure, the opening being configured to allow access to an interior space of the insulated container formed by the side wall structure and the bottom portion, wherein the gasket is configured to provide a watertight seal when the lid is in a closed and secured position; and at least one latch device configured to secure the cover when the cover is in a closed position; and a drain plug assembly located on the rear sidewall adjacent the bottom portion of the base, the drain plug assembly comprising a main tube matingly engaged with an outer tube extending through the rear sidewall, wherein the main tube comprises one or more ratchet keys on an externally threaded connection, and the outer tube comprises an internally threaded connection and a plurality of ratchet teeth, the internally threaded connection threadably engaging the externally threaded connection of the main tube, the plurality of ratchet teeth engaging the one or more ratchet keys on the main tube, wherein the ratchet keys of the main tube engage the ratchet teeth on the outer tube when the main tube is screwed into the outer tube; and A handle assembly is attached to the rear side wall adjacent to the bottom portion, the handle assembly having a telescopic three-stage arm structure, the telescopic three-stage arm structure being defined by a first stage, a second stage, and a third stage, wherein the handle assembly is in a stowed structure at the first stage, a partially extended structure at the second stage, and a fully extended structure at the third stage.

17. The thermally insulated container according to claim 16, wherein: The handle assembly includes an upper arm, a middle arm and a lower arm, wherein the upper arm is nested and slidable inside the middle arm, and the middle arm is nested and slidable inside the lower arm, thereby producing the telescopic three-stage arm structure.

18. The thermally insulated container according to claim 16, wherein: The outer tube also includes a gasket located on an edge of the main tube between the main tube and the rear side wall of the base.

19. The thermally insulated container according to claim 16, wherein: The ratchet teeth are uniform and asymmetrical, with each tooth having a moderate slope on one edge and a steeper slope on the other edge.

20. The thermally insulated container according to claim 16, wherein: The at least one latching device further comprises: a latch upper portion, wherein the latch upper portion is pivotally attached to the cover; and a latch lower portion, wherein the latch lower portion is pivotally attached to the latch upper portion, Wherein, the lower portion of the latch further includes an engaging tab, wherein the engagement tab is configured as an engagement retainer, wherein the latch lower portion is formed of a first material and the latch upper portion is formed of a second material, wherein the first material is stiffer than the second material, and Wherein, the retainer is positioned at the front side of the bottom portion of the insulated container.

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