TAP AND TAP PROTECTION FOR AN INSULATED VESSEL

Abstract

An insulating container is provided, comprising a base and a lid. The lid can be rotated around a hinge from a closed to an open configuration and can be secured, by one or more latching devices, in either the closed or open configuration. In some examples, the rotating lid can be non-destructively removed from the base. Some example arrangements include a removable lid that, when removed, can be secured to the base via an additional portion of the latching device. Additional features of the insulating container include handles integrally formed with the base, a cavity formed in the base that houses a tap, and / or a tap guard, and / or an insulating container assembly.

Description

TAP AND TAP PROTECTION FOR AN INSULATED VESSEL CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[01] This application claims priority from U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 200,213, filed November 26, 2018, entitled “Faucet and Faucet Guard for an Insulating Vessel,” which is a continuation in part, and claims priority from U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 787,441, filed October 18, 2017, entitled “Faucet and Faucet Guard for an Insulating Vessel,” which is a continuation in part, and claims priority from U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 296,557, filed October 18, 2016, entitled “Faucet and Faucet Guard for an Insulating Vessel,” which is a continuation in part of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 133,393, filed April 20, 2016, entitled “Insulating Vessel,” which are incorporated herein by reference. totality. BACKGROUND

[02] Various types of containers are commonly used to store liquids, as well as other items such as food. In some situations, it may be advantageous to maintain the temperature of the contents stored in the container. Accordingly, an insulated container may be used. However, conventional insulated containers are not usually very durable. For example, they have lids that can be lost or broken, handles that can protrude from a portion of the container's base, and / or a spigot that extends outward from the container. In these situations, the lid, handle, and / or spigot may be susceptible to breakage, which, in some cases, can render the container virtually unusable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[03] This brief description is presented to introduce a number of concepts in a simplified form that are described later in the Detailed Description. The purpose of this brief description is not to identify key or essential features of the claimed object, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed object.

[04] Insulating containers with various features are described herein. In some examples, insulating containers may include a base and a lid. The lid may rotate around a hinge from a closed to an open configuration. In some examples, the insulating container may include at least one latching device. The latching device may have a portion disposed on the lid and a portion disposed on the base and may be configured to secure the lid in the closed configuration. In some arrangements, the latching device may include an additional portion disposed on another side of the base and configured to secure the lid in the open configuration.

[05] In some examples, the rotating lid can be non-destructively removed from the base. Accordingly, the lid can be removed from the base as needed, and RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u can be replaced as needed. In some configurations, the removable cover, when removed, can be secured to the base via the additional portion of the latch device.

[06] In some arrangements, the insulating container may include handles that are integrally formed with the base. The handles may be formed as angled cuts in a side wall of the base and may be flush with an outer surface of the base. Additionally or alternatively, the base may include a cavity in which a tap is disposed. A tap guard may extend from one edge of the cavity, along the length of the tap, to an opposite edge of the cavity, to protect the tap while allowing its use.

[07] In some examples, the tap can be disassembled and reassembled to allow for cleaning of the tap and various components. For example, the tap may include a tap body, a threaded valve stem that extends through the tap body and connects to a button configured to supply fluid from the insulating vessel. The tap may also include a tap nut connected to a threaded portion of the tap body and disposed inside the insulating vessel to maintain the tap's position.

[08] In some arrangements, tap protection may include two side tap guards, one on each side of the tap. The side tap guards may be integrally formed with the base of the insulating vessel. In some examples, tap protection may also include a cross tap guard that may be formed separately from the base and connected to the base.

[09] In some arrangements, the insulating container may be mounted or secured to an insulating container assembly. The insulating container assembly provides a base for securing the container, for example, on various types of vehicles such as automobiles, boats, all-terrain vehicles, golf carts, aircraft, or other platforms. In some instances, the interior of the insulating container may be accessed while the insulating container is secured to the insulating container assembly.

[10] In some arrangements, the insulating container may include a gasket configured to seal the opening when a lid is in the closed position. In some examples, the gasket is fixed in a cavity in the underside of the lid, and the cavity extends around the perimeter of the underside of the lid. In other examples, the gasket also includes a base or root section, a first side, and a second side. In some examples, the base or root region may include a plurality of prongs configured to engage with the cavity in the underside of the lid. In still other examples, the first side may be connected to the base or root region, and the first side may be substantially perpendicular to the base or root region (i.e., the first side is horizontal).In another example, the second lateral extends from and away from (i.e., distally) one end of the first lateral at an angle of approximately 30–60 degrees. In still other examples, the first lateral and second lateral may form a V-shaped opening or an extension configured to extend distally, or away from, the root into the insulating container. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u

[11] In some examples, the gasket for the insulating vessel may include at least one vent hole. In other examples, the gasket includes at least one vent hole, wherein the vent hole may be configured to extend from an outer edge of the gasket wall to an inner gasket wall. In other examples, the vent hole may provide a conduit into an interior void of the insulating vessel. In other examples, the gasket may be substantially square or substantially rectangular in shape, and the gasket may be constructed of flexible PVC.

[12] These and various additional features will be described in more detail herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[13] The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not limited, in the accompanying figures where similar reference numbers indicate similar elements and where:

[14] Figures 1A and 1B are front and rear perspective views, respectively, of an insulating container, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[15] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the insulating container of Figures 1A and 1B with a portion of the lid removed, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[16] Figure 3 is a flat view of a latch device or mechanism with a partial cut of a gripping portion, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[17] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a latch device or mechanism, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[18] Figures 5A-5D illustrate a hinge arrangement in which a lid can be rotated from a closed configuration to an open configuration, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[19] Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of an insulating container having an example fixing portion for securing a lid in an open configuration, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[20] Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of an insulating container having an additional example fixing portion for securing a lid in an open configuration, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[21] Figure 8 illustrates an example arrangement of an insulating container having a rotating lid, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[22] Figures 9A-9C illustrate the rotation of a lid from a closed configuration to an open configuration, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[23] Figures 10A-10B illustrate an example hinged lid arrangement in which a lid can be detachably connected to a base of an insulating container, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[24] Figures 11A-11B illustrate an example joint arrangement, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[25] Figure 12 illustrates an example joint arrangement that includes different sections of a joint having a “V” oriented in different directions, according to one or more aspects described herein. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / viAi

[26] Figure 13 illustrates another joint arrangement that can be used in one or more insulating vessel configurations, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[27] Figure 14 illustrates yet another joint arrangement, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[28] Figure 15A illustrates yet another example joint arrangement that can be used in one or more insulating vessel configurations, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[29] Figure 15B illustrates an symmetrical bottom view of the example joint arrangement of Figure 15A including a joined end of the joint, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[30] Figure 15C illustrates a cross-sectional bottom perspective view of the example joint arrangement of Figure 15A and in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[31] Figure 15D illustrates another cross-sectional bottom view of the example joint shown in Figure 15C.

[32] Figure 15E also illustrates the example gasket arrangement of Figure 15A where the gasket is attached to the underside of an insulating container lid having a “V” shaped extension facing the base of an insulating container.

[33] Figure 16 illustrates another example insulating container having a hinge arrangement that permits removal of a lid from a base, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[34] Figures 16A-16C illustrate an example method for removing a lid from an insulating container base, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[35] Figure 17 illustrates yet another example of an insulating container having a removable lid, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[36] Figures 18A-18C illustrate an example of a lid being removed from a base, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[37] Figures 19-21 illustrate an example of a hinge insert that can be used in conjunction with one or more hinge arrangements, in accordance with one or more aspects mentioned herein.

[38] Figure 22 illustrates another example insulating container, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[39] Figures 23 and 24 illustrate various tap arrangements, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[40] Figures 25-27 illustrate various handle arrangements that may be used with one or more of the insulating containers described herein.

[41] Figure 28 illustrates an example insulating container having an example tap and tap guard, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[42] Figure 29 illustrates an example faucet that can be used with one or more of the aspects described herein.

[43] Figure 30 is an exploded view of the example tap in Figure 29. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u

[44] Figure 31 is a front view of an opening formed in a portion of a tap body, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[45] Figure 32 is a side view of the example tap in Figure 29 shown in isolation.

[46] Figure 33 is a front view of an insulating container including an example tap assembly and tap guard described herein.

[47] Figure 34 is a side view of the insulating container of Figure 33.

[48] ​​Figure 35 is a perspective view of a portion of an example tap guard, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[49] Figure 36 is a top view of the tap guard portion shown in Figure 35.

[50] Figure 37 is a front view of an insulating vessel including a tap assembly and tap guard as well as an example insulating vessel assembly described herein.

[51] Figure 38 illustrates an example insulating container assembly that can be used in conjunction with an insulating container, according to one or more aspects mentioned herein.

[52] Figure 39 shows the left and right sides of the insulating container of Figure 38.

[53] Figure 40A is a top view of the insulating vessel assembly shown in the Figure 38. Figure 40B is a front view of the insulating container assembly with the hook points or flat hooks in the folded position. Figure 40C is a side view of the insulating container assembly with the hook points or flat hooks folded into the loop or slot.

[54] Figure 41 is a front view of the insulating vessel assembly.

[55] Figure 42 is a perspective view of an example insulating vessel assembly, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

[56] Figure 43 is a right side view of the insulating container assembly of Figure 42.

[57] Furthermore, it should be understood that the drawings may represent the scale of different components of a single embodiment; however, the disclosed embodiments are not limited to that particular scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[58] The aspects of this disclosure relate to an insulated container configured to store a volume of liquid or other contents. In some examples, the insulated container may include a locking lid that may have a hinge to allow the lid to rotate from a closed position to an open position that is approximately 270° from the closed position, and / or that can be nondestructively removed (for example, taken apart and replaced) from a base portion of the insulated container. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container may include a gasket having a V-shaped portion that assists in venting the insulated container. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container may have handles that are integrally formed in the RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u base portion of the insulating container. In other examples, the insulating container may include a guard or other device configured to protect a tap or nozzle disposed in the insulating container, while still allowing the tap to be used. These and other features and aspects of the insulating container will be described in greater detail herein.

[59] In the following description of the various embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which illustrate various embodiments in which aspects of the disclosure may be implemented. It should be understood that other embodiments may be used and that structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

[60] Figures 1A and 1B represent perspective views of an insulating container 100. In one example, the insulating container 100 may comprise a base portion 102 and a lid 104, which, in some examples, may be detachably and non-destructively attached to it. The base portion 102 may be an insulating structure that forms a vacuum to contain a liquid, as will be discussed in more detail herein. In some examples, the base portion 102 may be cuboidal or substantially cuboidal in shape. In other examples, the base portion 102 may be prismoidal or substantially prismoidal (e.g., a pentagonal prism, hexagonal prism, heptagonal prism, or the like) in shape. In other examples, the base portion 102 may be substantially cylindrical in shape or may have a substantially trapezoidal cross-section. Other shapes may be used without departing from the invention.

[61] The base portion 102 may include a first end 106, which has a lower surface 108. The lower surface 108 may be configured to support the insulating container on a surface, such as a table, the floor, a vehicle platform, or the like. In some examples, the lower surface may be shaped to match a mounting structure to facilitate mounting and / or securing the insulating container 100, for example, to a truck platform. For example, the cut portions 107 shown in Figures 1A and 1B may be configured to align with a mounting structure arranged on the vehicle platform and may help secure the insulating container 100 to the vehicle platform.

[62] The base portion 102 also includes a second end 110 that defines an opening 112 (shown in Figure 2) that can be used to fill the insulating container. The opening 112 can be covered by the lid 104 when the insulating container is in use (e.g., when the insulating container is in a closed configuration). The base portion 102 can also include a plurality of side portions 114 connected to the bottom surface that defines a void for receiving liquid in the insulating container 102. The side portions 114 can be arranged so that they generally extend perpendicularly from the bottom surface.

[63] In some arrangements, one or more handles 190 may be arranged on one or more side portions 114 (or another region of the base portion 102). The handles may be molded from RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u integrally with the base portion 102 and may generally be a skew cut formed in the side portion 114 of the base 102. In some examples, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the skew cut forming the handle may include a cavity that extends along substantially all or most of the side portion 114. This may facilitate the manufacture of the base 102 with the handles 190 molded integrally. In some examples, the handles 190 may be aligned with an outer surface of the base 102 in order to reduce the risk of breakage. These and other various handle features and arrangements will be discussed in more detail below.

[64] As discussed above, the insulated container 100 can be configured to contain, store, transport, etc., a volume of liquid. In some examples, the insulated container 100 can be configured to store between five (5) and ten (10) gallons (between 18.93 and 37.85 L) of a liquid. In some examples, the insulated container can be configured to store approximately five (5) gallons (approximately 18.93 L) of a liquid. In other examples, the insulated container can be configured to store at least four (4) gallons (approximately 15.14 L) of liquid, at least approximately three (3) gallons (approximately 11.36 L) of liquid, at least approximately two (2) gallons (approximately 7.57 L) of liquid, or at least approximately one (1) gallon (approximately 3.79 L) of liquid, among others.Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container 100 can be configured to store materials in a solid or gaseous state, or combinations thereof, without departing from the scope of disclosure described herein.

[65] In at least some examples, the insulated container 100 (and several other containers described herein) may be sized to accommodate the liquid volumes described above. For example, the insulated container 100 may be between 10 and 24 inches high, between 10 and 24 inches wide, and between 10 and 20 inches deep.

[66] The insulating container 100 may include a lid 104. In some arrangements, the lid 104 may be connected to the base 102 in a closed configuration using a snap fit. Alternatively, other safety systems or devices may be used to secure the lid 104 to the base, as will be discussed in more detail herein.

[67] In some examples, the lid 104 may be hinged so that it is connected (either detachably or permanently) to the base 102 by means of a hinge 116 and may be rotated about the hinge 116. The hinge may be one of several types, including a continuous piano hinge, double hinge, ball-joint hinge, flexible hinge, and the like. These and other hinge arrangements may be discussed in more detail herein. The hinge 116 may allow the lid 104 to open and rotate away from the base portion 102, to allow access to the void defined by the base portion 102 (for example, through the opening 112).That is, the hinge can facilitate the rotation of lid 104 from a closed configuration of the insulating container (e.g., when the lid is in place covering the vacuum formed by the base) to an open configuration (e.g., when the lid is not covering the vacuum formed by the base), and vice versa. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u

[68] In some arrangements described herein, the base 102 and the cap 104 may include an outer surface or outer casing 117 that surrounds and contains an insulating portion 118, as shown in Figure 2. In general, the casing 117 is formed from various materials, such as one or more metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics, or fiber-reinforced materials. In some examples, the casing 117 may be formed from a plastic material, such as polyethylene, which is molded to form both the base 102 and cap 104 portions. In some examples, the insulating portion 118 is formed from an insulating material exhibiting low thermal conductivity. For example, the insulating portion 118 may be formed from (or filled with) a polymer foam, such as polyurethane foam. Other insulating materials or additional insulating materials may be used without departing from the invention.In some arrangements, the base portion 102 and lid portion 104 are formed using a rotational molding process as will be understood by a person of average skill (not shown). However, other types of molding or other manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, casting, forging, and the like) may be used to form the insulating container without departing from the invention.

[69] In some examples, the lid 104 can be configured to remain connected to the base portion 102 in both an open and a closed configuration. For example, the lid 104 can be secured or locked in a closed position by using latch devices 120. Latch devices 120 can be various types of latches, including a t-latch that has a latching portion and a catch portion, as well as several other types of latches.

[70] For example, an example latch device 120 that can be used with the insulating container 100 is described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. The latch device 120 shown and described is only an example latch that can be used and various other types of latches can be used without departing from the invention.

[71] Figure 3 is a plan view of an example latch device 120, including a partial cutaway of a gripping portion. The latch device 120 includes a latch portion 122 and a hook portion 140. In the arrangements shown, the hook 140 includes two portions extending along any side of a root 126 of the latch 122. In the example shown in Figure 3, the latch 122 connects to the cap 104, while the hook 140 connects to the base 102. However, in some examples, the latch 122 may be connected to the base 102, while the hook 140 connects to the cap 104. Accordingly, the latch 122 and the hook 140 are interchangeably positioned on any portion of the insulating container 100.

[72] With reference to Figures 3 and 4, the latch 122 is configured to releasably engage the latch hook 140 such that when the latch 122 is engaged with the hook 140, the opposite cover portion 104 and the base portion 102 are held in the closed, secure, and / or sealed position. In some arrangements, the latch 122 includes a latch base 130, a body or root portion 126 extending from the latch base 130, a gripping portion 128 extending from the body portion 126, and a holding portion 124 extending from the gripping portion 128. In other words, the RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u The latch base 130 of the latch 122 is disposed at one end of the latch 122, while the gripping portion 124 is disposed at the opposite distal end of the latch 122. The gripping portion 128 is configured for a locking relationship, mating with a recessed housing or slotted area 142 of the latch engagement 140 as will be discussed in more detail below.

[73] The latch device 120 also includes a latch groove 145. The latch groove 145 can be formed entirely on the surface of the cover 104. The latch groove 145 is configured to receive the latch 122. For example, at least a portion of the latch base 130 of the latch 122 is received within the latch groove 145 when the latch 122 is engaged with the latch hook 140.

[74] According to one aspect of the invention, the latch 122 is made of a flexible, elastic, resilient material, molded in one piece, which is normally rotatably attached to the lid portion 104 of the container 100 and is received within a recessed, elongated latch groove 145 that is normally molded entirely into the container 100. The latch 122 may be molded in a one-piece construction of rubbery materials as understood by a person of average skill. The latch 122 may be formed from a material that is formed or manufactured from a plastic or other suitable material that can be formed or molded into a shape and retain the shape in which it was formed. The latch 122 may be manufactured of sufficient size, thickness, and construction materials to withstand repeated stress cycles as the latch engages / disengages with the latch catch 140 over time.In any case, the construction material is elastic and / or resistant (e.g., EPDM rubber or neoprene) so that when latch 122 is extended or otherwise stretched into an elongated position, either to engage or disengage latch 140, it rebounds or otherwise returns to its originally unstretched or partially stretched state to maintain sufficient tension to keep it in the closed position, with little or no deformation. In other words, latch 120 can retract or return to its original or near-original shape after being bent, stretched, or compressed, and when it is in an unstretched position.

[75] In some arrangements, the latch 122 is configured so that the gripping portion 124 extends from the body portion 126 at an angle to the plane of the latch 122. The angle between the gripping portion 124 and the body portion 126 may aid or facilitate a user's gripping of the latch 122. At this angle, the user can easily slide their fingers between the gripping portion 124 and the side of the base portion 102 of the insulating container 100 to disengage the latch 122 from the engagement 140. Furthermore, because the latch 122 is made of a strong material, even though the latch extends from the container body, it does not easily come loose or break.

[76] The gripping portion 124 is normally shaped to allow simple gripping by the user, and as shown in the figures, the gripping portion 124 is manufactured with a t-shape to facilitate gripping by a user. In this way, without RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u intended limitation, other forms contemplated for the gripping portion 124 include tongue shape and y shape (not shown), or a small flap of material extending from the gripping portion and which can be grasped for manipulation of the latch.

[77] With regard to another feature of the latch mechanism 120, the latch catch 140 is entirely molded within the base portion 102. The latch catch 140 includes an elongated engagement groove 141 and a recessed housing 142 formed in the engagement groove 141. The recessed housing 142 is normally configured to receive the gripping portion 128 of the latch 122, and the engagement groove 141 is normally configured to receive the body portion 126 of the latch 122.

[78] In some examples, the body portion 126 of the latch 122 is formed into a transverse inverted triangular shape 143, and the elongated engagement groove 141 of the latch catch 140 is also formed / molded into a complementary triangular shape that receives a portion to match the body portion 126 of the latch 122. In one embodiment, when the latch 122 seats / is received within the elongated engagement groove 141, the latch 122 forms a friction fit with the elongated engagement groove 141. Similarly, the body portion 126 and the engagement groove 141 may have complementary three-dimensional pyramidal, square, or rectangular shapes (not shown).

[79] In some examples, the gripping portion 128 of the latch 122 may be ball-shaped, and the recessed housing 142 of the latch catch 140 is configured as a complementaryly formed groove 142 to receive the ball-shaped gripping portion 128. Thus, when the gripping portion 128 seats within the recessed housing 142, the parts are mechanically engaged, and there is a larger contact area between the part surfaces, ensuring the maintenance of the closed and / or sealed position. It is also contemplated that the gripping portion may adopt any shape that is readily received by an alternatively formed recessed housing in the latch catch. For example, the gripping portion may have a geometric shape, such as a triangle, a square, and the like.Thus, the recessed housing of the latch catch 140 would have a corresponding configuration capable of receiving the formed gripping portion. In other words, the gripping portion of the latch and the recessed housing of the latch catch are formed so that they are mated together. The recessed housing is thus shaped to receive the gripping portion while providing sufficient surface-to-surface contact to maintain closure.

[80] More specifically, in some provisions, the latch includes an integrated ball and slotted latch system for an insulated container 100. The latch catch 140 is designed to be part of the mold of the insulated container 100, and a precise fit for the ball-shaped gripping portion 128 is molded into a spring-loaded rubber latch 122 having a T-shaped end. This combination provides a strong and highly secure lid latch system. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u

[81] Figure 3 illustrates the latch device 120 in a closed position, while Figure 4 illustrates the latch device 120 in an open position. When in a closed position, the latch device 120 is positioned so that the lid 104 engages with the base 102 of the insulating container 100, thereby closing, securing, and / or sealing the container. To disengage the latch device 120, the gripping portion 124 is generally pulled / stretched downward toward the base 102 of the container 100. In other words, the body portion 126 of the latch 122 is pulled so that the gripping portion 128 disengages from the latch engagement 140. Once the gripping portion disengages the latch engagement 140, the latch 122 moves upward, away from the container, and in an arc.

[82] Similarly, to close the container 100, the latch 122 moves in a downward arc toward the container 100. When the movement of the latch 122 reaches the latch engagement 140, the latch 122 extends downward again toward the base 102, and the body portion 126 of the latch 122 seats within the engagement groove 141, preferably in a friction fit, as described above. Furthermore, when in the seated position, the body portion 126 of the latch 122 may be almost completely recessed within the latch groove 145 and the engagement groove 141, and, in some examples, does not extend or protrude beyond its surface.When the pulling force on latch 122 is removed, the latch is released to attempt to return to its previous state, thereby allowing the gripping portion 128 of latch 122 to seat and engage within the recessed housing 142 of the latch catch 140, thus closing the latch mechanism. As someone of average skill will understand, latch 122 is made of materials and sized such that when in the closed / seated position, sufficient force remains to maintain the closed position of the receptacle. In other words, in the closed position, a certain amount of tension is maintained in latch 122 as it does not fully return to its unstretched state. In the closed position, the gripping portion 128 of latch 122 is engaged within the recessed housing 142 of the catch groove 140.In some example arrangements, the gripping portion 128 is measured and sized to provide maximum contact with the recessed housing 142, thereby ensuring a closure that can be easily maintained.

[83] Also, with reference to Figures 1A, 1B, and 2, to open the lid 104 (for example, to allow access to an internal void formed by the base 102), the hinged lid 104 can be rotated away from the base portion 102 and can rest against a rear side 114 of the base portion 102 (for example, the lid can be rotated 270° from a closed configuration (for example, the position shown in Figures 1A and 1B) to an open configuration). In some arrangements, the fully open position or configuration may include at least a portion of an upper, outer surface of the lid 104 that is in contact with a rear side (or other) portion 114 of the base portion 102 of the insulating container 100.

[84] For example, Figures 5A-5D illustrate an example rotation of the lid 104 with respect to the base portion 102 from a closed position or configuration (Figure 5A) to a position RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / uo fully open configuration (Figure 5D). For example, as shown in Figure 5A, lid 104 is in a substantially closed position. That is, lid 104 is substantially perpendicular to base 102 and covers the opening (not shown in Figure 5A). To open lid 104 and thus access the vacuum defined by base 102 of the insulating container 100, lid 104 can be lifted upwards in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 5A.

[85] The lid 104 can then rotate about a hinge 116, as shown in Figure 5B. That is, the lid 104 is now shown at an angle with respect to the previous perpendicular position (shown in Figure 5A), indicating that the lid 104 is opening. The lid 104 can continue to rotate about the hinge 116, as shown in Figures 5C and 5D, until the lid 104 is in the fully open position shown in Figure 5D. When in the fully open position, at least a portion of an outer, upper surface 118 of the lid 104 may be in contact with a rear side 114 of the insulating container 100. In some examples, the fully open position or configuration may be 270° from the closed position.

[86] In some examples, when in a fully open position, lid 104 can be held in place in the fully open position by one or more latching or locking mechanisms or devices. Figures 6 and 7 illustrate some example latching systems that can be used to hold lid 104 in the fully open position. Insulating containers 200 and 300, shown in Figures 6 and 7, respectively, may be substantially similar to insulating container 100 (or several other insulating containers described herein) and may include some or all of the features described with respect to insulating container 100, or any other insulating container described herein.

[87] Figure 6 illustrates an arrangement in which the insulating container 200 includes latching devices similar to those mentioned with respect to Figures 3 and 4. That is, the latching devices include hooks on the front of the container (e.g., similar to container 100 shown in Figure 1A, which includes latching devices to secure the lid 104 in the closed position). In addition, a second set of hooks 240 can be arranged on a rear or back side 214 (e.g., the side that receives the lid 204 when it is opened) of the base 202, as shown in Figure 6.Accordingly, when the lid 204 is in the fully closed position, the gripping portion of a latch (not shown) will be received in and engage with hooks formed on the front of the insulating container (as shown in Figures 1A and 1B), and when the lid 204 is in a fully open position, the gripping portion of the latch (not shown) can be received in the hooks 240 formed on the rear side 214 of the base 202 to maintain the position of the lid 204 (e.g., to secure the lid 204 to the rear side 214 of the base 202).

[88] Similar to the provisions mentioned above, the 240 hooks can be molded into the 202 base. A process similar to that described above can be used to engage / disengage the latch with the 240 hooks (e.g., when RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u engages with the hooks, the clamping portion is pulled down and rotated upwards, away from the container; when disengaged, the clamping portion is rotated downwards, towards the container and pulled down to engage the hook).

[89] Figure 7 illustrates another example arrangement in which an insulating container 300 having a lid 304 can be secured in an open and a closed configuration. Similar to other arrangements mentioned herein, the insulating container 300 includes a lid 304 and a base 302. The lid 304 and base 302 may have one or more types of fastening arrangements to secure the lid 304 to the base 302 when the lid 304 is in the closed configuration. In addition or alternatively, the insulating container 300 may include an open-configuration latch system comprising a plurality of handles 350a, 350b. A first magnet 350a can be disposed on an upper, outer surface 303 of the lid 304. A second magnet 350b can be disposed on a rear side 314 of the base 302 in a position corresponding to the position of the first magnet 350a when the lid 304 is in a fully open position.Accordingly, when lid 304 is in the fully open position (e.g., rotated approximately 270° from the closed position), the first magnet 350a and second magnet 350b may be in close proximity to each other and may engage through magnetic force (i.e., they may be magnetically attracted to each other to secure lid 304 in the open configuration). The magnetic force may be strong enough to secure lid 304 in the fully open position relative to base 302. However, a force applied to lid 304 (e.g., outward and / or upward, away from base 302) may be sufficient to overcome the magnetic force, and lid 304 may be rotated to the closed position as needed.Although the arrangement in Figure 7 includes a first magnet 350a positioned on the lid 304, in some arrangements, substantially the entire outer surface 303 of the lid 304 may be magnetic. Accordingly, in such arrangements, the placement or position of the magnet 350b may vary because a larger portion of the surface may be available for engagement with the magnet 350b. In some examples, the magnets 350a and 350b may also be used to display a logo or name of a company or manufacturer of the insulating container (for example, a magnetic plate may be used that can display the logo or name).

[90] The arrangements in Figures 6 and 7 are only a few example fastening arrangements. Several other types of arrangements can be used to secure a lid in an open configuration without departing from the invention. For example, a projection (e.g., male portion) can be arranged on an outer surface of the lid and can be received in a corresponding cavity (e.g., female portion) formed in the rear side of the base. When in an open configuration, the projection can be received in the cavity, and the lid can be secured by means of a snap connector. To return the lid to the closed configuration, the lid can be moved away from the base to release the snap connector. In some examples, the projection can be formed in the base while the corresponding cavity can be formed in the lid. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u

[91] The provisions described herein, in which an insulated container lid can be secured in an open configuration and a closed configuration, allow the insulated container to be used in various ways regardless of whether the lid falls off, is lost, etc. For example, the insulated container can be secured to the bed of a vehicle, such as a pickup truck. When driving, the lid can be secured in either the open or closed configuration to ensure that the lid is not lost due to wind, driving conditions, etc.

[92] Figure 8 illustrates another example arrangement of an insulating container 400 having a rotating lid. As shown in Figure 8, the insulating container 400 may include a double-hinged arrangement. That is, each hinge 406a, 406b may have two pivot points to allow the lid 404 to be opened and closed with respect to the base 402. For example, the lid 404 may pivot with respect to point 408 (shown on hinge 406b but also on hinge 406a), as well as to point 410 (shown on hinge 406b but also on hinge 406a). Figures 9A-9C illustrate the rotation of the lid 404 from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[93] For example, Figure 9A shows the lid 404 in a closed configuration with respect to the base 402. Figure 9B illustrates the lid 404 as partially open with respect to the base 402. The lid 404 is rotated in the direction of arrow 405 from the closed configuration to an open configuration. Figure 9C illustrates the lid 404 in a fully open position with respect to the base 402. The lid 404 is further rotated in the direction of arrow 407 to open the lid 404. In some examples, the lid 404 can be rotated from a closed configuration (for example, as shown in Figure 9A) through an arc of between 90° and 270° to the open position. In some arrangements, the hinge 406a, 406b can be configured to help maintain the lid 404 in the open position with respect to the base 402.

[94] Although several arrangements mentioned herein include a lid that pivots from a closed to an open configuration and can be secured in either configuration, in some examples, the lid can be nondestructively removed from the insulating container. Figures 10A and 10B illustrate a hinged lid arrangement in which the lid can be detachably connected to the base of the insulating container.

[95] Figure 10A illustrates a portion of an insulating container 500. The insulating container 500 may be substantially similar to other miscellaneous insulating containers (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, etc.) described herein and may include one or more features described with respect to one or more of the other insulating containers. The removable lid 504 is shown substantially perpendicular to the base 502 in the closed configuration of Figure 10A. Accordingly, to open the lid 504 (and subsequently remove it from the base 502), the lid 504 can be rotated in the direction of arrow 505 in Figure 10B.

[96] In some arrangements, the cover 504 can rotate around the hinge 516 until the first fixing portion 570 (for example, an end point of fixing portion 570) is released from the second fixing portion 572 (for example, an end point of the second fixing portion 572). At that point, the cover 504 can be lifted upward, in the RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u direction of arrow 507, to completely separate or remove the cover 504 from the base 502. To replace the cover 504, the cover 504 can be lowered towards the base 502 until the first fixing portion 570 aligns with and / or makes contact with the second fixing portion 572. Once the first and second fixing portions align with and / or make contact, the cover 504 can be rotated downwards, as indicated by arrow 505, towards the base 502.

[97] In some arrangements, the lid 504, which is non-destructively removable from the base 502 of the insulating container, may include one or more latch or fastening arrangements, as discussed above. For example, although the lid 504 can be removed from the base 502, a user may wish to secure the lid 504 to the base 502 in an open configuration. Accordingly, the lid 504 may include latches or a magnet (as discussed above with respect to lids 504 and 504 in Figures 6 and 7, respectively) to secure the lid 504 to a panel of the base 502 (similar to the arrangements mentioned above with respect to Figures 6 and 7).

[98] Optionally, in some examples, one or both of the first fixing portion 570 and the second fixing portion 572 may include a projection or stop 575. The projection may be configured to prevent the cap 504 from rotating past the stop point and accidentally separating from the base 502. Accordingly, in arrangements having a stop, the cap 504 may rotate to a point where the stop 575 engages, and if a user wishes to remove the cap 504, the user may apply additional force to release the stop and then remove the cap 504 from the base 502.

[99] In addition, in some arrangements, the insulating container may include a gasket or other sealing device. The gasket may be arranged in either the lid or the base and may help to seal the lid and base when the lid is in a closed configuration. In some examples, the gasket may sit in a cavity formed in at least one of the base and lid and extending around a perimeter of at least one of the base or lid. The gasket may help to maintain the temperature of the liquid contained within the insulating container. An example gasket arrangement is shown in Figures 10A and 10B, although this and other gasket arrangements may be used with any of the insulating containers described herein.

[100] As shown, gasket 560 is disposed in a cavity or channel 564 in the base 502. Alternatively, gasket 560 can be disposed in a cavity or channel formed in the lid 504. When the lid 504 is in a closed configuration, a projection 562 having a shape corresponding to a cavity 564 can contact gasket 560 and compress gasket 560, helping to seal the lid and base in the closed configuration. In some arrangements, the gasket may include strategically placed cut portions that can reduce or eliminate a need for venting (for example, venting to prevent lid blockage), as will be discussed in more detail below.

[101] In some examples, the gasket may be a traditional gasket having a substantially circular cross-section. In other examples, the gasket may have a particular cross-section configured to aid in venting the insulating vessel. An example arrangement is shown in Figures 11A and 11B. The gasket 600a, 600b shown includes RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u a base or root region 602 that can be received in a cavity 604 in a cap 606 or base 608 of an insulating vessel. The gasket 600 may include a V-shaped or substantially V-shaped portion or extension 610 connected to the base or root region 602 and extending outward from the cavity 604 and into a space in which the cap 606 and base 608 join with the insulating vessel in a closed configuration.

[102] In some examples, the V-shaped portion 610 can generally extend horizontally from the base region 602. That is, the V-shaped portion 610 can include a first side of the “V” 612, which can be in contact with the base or root region 602 in a substantially horizontal configuration. A second side of the “V” 614 can extend from one end of the first side 612 at an angle to the side 612, thereby forming a V-shaped arrangement of the two sides 612 and 614.

[103] This V-shaped arrangement can help allow ventilation of the interior of the insulating container when the container is in a closed configuration. In some examples, the V-shaped arrangement can help prevent leakage from the insulating container (e.g., of water or other fluids) while allowing at least some air to escape from the interior of the container. In other examples, the 600 gasket may include at least one vent hole or a plurality of vent holes.

[104] As shown in Figure 11A, the V-shaped portion 610a can be arranged with the open area of ​​the “V” (for example, one end of the side 612 not connected to the side 614) oriented away from an interior 616 of the insulating vessel. In another example, as shown in Figure 11B, the open area of ​​the “V” 610b can be oriented toward the interior 616 of the insulating vessel. In yet another example, a joint can be formed in two or more sections. The two or more sections can include portions having the “V” oriented in different directions.

[105] For example, Figure 12 illustrates an example joint arrangement in which different sections of the joint, which has a “V” oriented in different directions, can be used. Figure 12 illustrates three joint sections, 700a, 700b, and 700c. It is worth noting that, although shown as three sections, sections 700a and 700c can be a single joint piece where section 700a represents one end of the joint and 700c represents the other end.

[106] In some examples, sections 700a and 700c may include a joint arrangement in which the “V” portion is oriented toward the interior of the insulating vessel (as shown in Figure 11B), whereas section 700b may include a joint arrangement in which the “V” portion is oriented away from the interior of the insulating vessel (as shown in Figure 11A). Alternatively, sections 700a and 700c may include a V portion oriented away from the interior, whereas section 700b includes a V portion that extends inward.

[107] Although three sections are shown in Figure 12, more sections may also be used in this arrangement. The additional sections may be arranged in various joint patterns to improve ventilation of the interior of the insulating container without departing from the invention. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u

[108] Figure 13 illustrates another gasket arrangement that can be used in one or more insulating vessel configurations. The gasket shown includes a first section 800a and a second section 800b. As mentioned above, sections 800a and 800b can be separate, distinct sections of gasket material or they can be two ends of the same piece of gasket material. In the arrangement shown in Figure 13, the ends 801a, 801b of each section 800a, 800b can be adjacent to each other (for example, when the gasket is installed on a lid or base of an insulating vessel). To help maintain the position of the ends 801a, 801b of the gasket, adhesive tape or other adhesive material 802 can be applied to the gasket. In some examples, adhesive 802 can extend from section 800a to section 800b and can encompass the adjacent ends 801a, 801b.

[109] Figure 14 illustrates another example joint arrangement. Similar to the arrangement in Figure 13, the joint may include a first section 900a and a second section 900b, which may be two distinct sections or opposite ends of the same section of joint material. Unlike the arrangement in Figure 13, where the ends of each section are adjacent, the end 901a of section 900a and the end 901b of section 900b are not adjacent. Instead, the ends 901a and 901b are separated from each other to define a space 904 between each end 901a and 901b of each section 900a and 900b. Similar to Figure 13, an adhesive portion 902 may be used to help maintain a joint position and / or arrangement. The adhesive portion 902 can extend from section 900a to section 900b and can encompass end 901a, 901b, as well as space 904.This arrangement can help provide ventilation for the interior of the insulating container.

[110] Figures 15A-15E illustrate another example gasket arrangement configured to seal the lid 1606 to prevent leakage of liquids, and wherein the insulating vessel is also configured to be aligned with and mounted on an insulating vessel assembly 1810. Similar to the foregoing examples, the insulating vessel 1800 may comprise a tap 1880, a gasket 1560, and a lid 1606 that can be attached thereto in a detachable and nondestructive manner in accordance with the disclosure herein.

[111] Figure 15A illustrates another example of a gasket. The gasket 1560 includes the joined ends 1902 and at least one vent hole 1904. In some arrangements, the vent holes 1904 reduce or eliminate the need for venting to prevent the lid from being blocked by pressure changes inside and outside the insulating vessel. The vent holes 1904 are configured to allow air or fluid to escape from or enter an internal vacuum of the insulating vessel 1800 to compensate for the internal pressure of the insulating vessel and the external atmospheric or pressure. In other examples, the gasket 1560 may include a plurality of vent holes 1904. In other arrangements, the gasket 1560 may include three vent holes. Still in other arrangements, the gasket 1560 may include a front vent hole 1906. The front vent hole 1906 may be arranged on the side of the insulating vessel from which the lid 1804 opens.In other configurations, in fact, the 1906 front vent hole can be configured at the rear of the container. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u insulating container 1800 where the cover 1804 is attached to the insulating container 1800. Ventilation holes 1902 can be configured on the sides of the insulating container 1800 when the gasket 1560 is mounted on the insulating container. The gasket 1560 can be substantially square or substantially rectangular. The gasket 1560 can have a corresponding shape that fits the opening of the insulating container, for example, opening 112.

[112] As shown in Figures 15B-15E, the gasket 1560 has a unique profile or cross-section configured to assist in venting the insulating vessel. The gasket 1560 may include a base or root region 1602 that can be received or secured in the cavity 1604 in a lid 1606 or base 1608 of an insulating vessel. In some configurations, the cavity 1604 extends along the entire perimeter of the bottom of the lid 1606 or the perimeter of the top of the base 1608. The gasket 1560 may include a V-shaped or substantially V-shaped portion or extension 1610 connected to the base or root 1602 and extending outward from the cavity 1604 and into a space in which the lid 1606 and base 1608 join with the insulating vessel in a closed configuration.The V-shaped arrangement with at least one or a plurality of vent holes 1904 can help allow ventilation of the interior of the insulating container when the container is in a closed configuration. In other instances, the V-shaped arrangement can help prevent leakage from the insulating container (e.g., of water or other fluids) while allowing at least some air to escape from the interior 1616 of the insulating container. As shown in Figure 15E, the vent hole 1904 provides a channel 1622 through the base or root region 1602 to allow air to escape from the interior 1616 or to allow air to enter the interior 1616 of the insulating container to equalize pressure and thus prevent the lid from sealing.In some arrangements, the vent holes 1904 extend from an outer edge of the gasket wall into an inner gasket wall, thereby forming the channel 1622. In other configurations, the vent hole 1904 and channel 1622 are configured to vent fluid (e.g., air, water, or other fluids) from or into the interior 1616 or an internal void of the insulating vessel formed by the side wall structure and a lower portion of the insulating vessel when the lid is in a closed position. In still other examples, the vent hole 1904 and channel 1622 are configured to provide a conduit to the interior 1616 of the insulating vessel.

[113] In some examples, the V-shaped portion or extension 1610 may include a first side of the “V” 1612, which may be in contact with the base or root region 1602 in a substantially horizontal configuration. The base or root region 1602 is substantially perpendicular to the first side 1612. A second side of the “V” 1614 may extend distally or away from one end of the first side 1612 at an angle 1618, thereby forming a V-shaped arrangement of the two sides 1612 and 1614. The V-shaped portion or extension 1610 may generally extend away from or opposite (i.e., distally) the base or root region 1602. In some examples, the angle 1618 may be about 30–60 degrees when the vessel is in a configuration RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u open. In other examples, the angle 1618 may be about 45 degrees when the vessel is in an open configuration. In other arrangements, the base or root region 1602 may include a plurality of prongs 1620. In some examples, the prongs 1620 are configured to insert into the groove or cavity 1604 that extends along the entire perimeter of the bottom of the lid 1606 or the perimeter of the top of the base 1608 to help secure the gasket 1560 to the insulating vessel. In addition, the gasket 1560 may include at least one joined end 1902 or a plurality of joined ends 1902.

[114] As shown in Figure 15E, gasket 1560 is disposed in a cavity or channel 564 in the base 502. Alternatively, gasket 560 can be disposed in a cavity or channel formed in the lid 504. When the lid 504 is in a closed configuration, a projection 562 having a shape corresponding to a cavity 564 can contact gasket 560 and compress gasket 560, helping to seal the lid and base in the closed configuration. In some arrangements, the gasket may include strategically placed cut portions that can reduce or eliminate a need for venting (for example, venting to prevent lid blockage), as will be discussed in more detail below.

[115] This alternative V-shaped arrangement incorporating at least one vent hole can help allow ventilation of the interior of the insulating container when the container is in a closed configuration. In some examples, the V-shaped arrangement can help prevent leakage from the insulating container (e.g., of water or other fluids) while allowing at least some air to escape from the interior of the container through at least one vent hole or a plurality of vent holes. In other examples, the gasket is formed from plastic, rubber, silicone, flexible PVC, or other similar material.

[116] In other arrangements, the V-shaped portion or extension 1610 may be arranged with the open area of ​​the “V” facing away from an interior 1616 of the insulating container. In another example, as shown in Figure 15E, the open area of ​​the “V” may be oriented toward the interior 1616 of the insulating container. In yet another example, a joint may be formed in two or more sections. The two or more sections may include portions having the “V” oriented in different directions.

[117] The joint arrangements shown in Figures 11-15 can be used as shown in each figure or can be used in combination with each other without departing from the invention.

[118] Alternatively, other ventilation arrangements may be used without departing from the invention. For example, a portion of the base may include a material through which air can pass but which does not allow water or other liquids to penetrate. This mesh material may allow ventilation without allowing the liquid contained within the insulating container to leak out.

[119] Figure 16 illustrates another example of an insulating container 1000 having a hinge arrangement that allows the lid 1004 to be removed from the base 1002. The arrangement shown in Figure 16 is only one example of a quick-release arrangement that may be used with one or more aspects of the insulating containers described herein. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u

[120] As shown in Figure 16, the insulating container 1000 includes two hinged portions 1006. The hinged portions 1006 are shown more clearly in Figures 16A-16C. However, the hinged portions may include a joined member 1008 that connects to a rod or shaft 1010. The rod or shaft may extend over at least a portion of a rear upper portion of the insulating container 1000. In some examples, the rod or shaft 1010 may extend over the entire length of the rear upper portion of the insulating container.

[121] Figures 16A-16C illustrate an example of a method for removing the lid 1004 from the base 1002 of the insulating vessel 1000. For example, Figure 16A illustrates the lid 1004 in a generally closed configuration with respect to the base 1002. As the lid 1004 is pushed upward away from the base 1002, as shown in Figure 16B, the attached member 1008 can rotate about the rod or shaft 1010. The lid 1004 can continue to rotate until it is pulled to the rear of the insulating vessel and removed from the base, as shown in Figure 16C.

[122] Figure 17 illustrates yet another example of an insulating container 1100 having a removable lid. As shown in Figure 17, the insulating container includes a lid 1104 configured to rotate about a rod or shaft 1110. Upon reaching a certain point in the rotation, the lid 1104 can be removed from the base 1102, as shown in Figures 18A and 18C.

[123] For example, Figure 18A illustrates the lid 1104 in a closed configuration with respect to the base 1102. In Figure 18B, the lid 1104 was moved upward in the direction of arrow 1105 and is thus rotated about axis 1110. Upon reaching a predetermined point in the rotation, the lid 1104 can be pulled toward the front of the insulating container 1100 (in the direction of arrow 1107) and thus removed from the base 1102, as shown in Figure 18C.

[124] Figures 19-21 illustrate an example of a 1250 hinge insert that can be used in conjunction with one or more of the hinge arrangements mentioned herein.

[125] Figure 22 illustrates another insulating container 1300 that has several advantageous features. The insulating container 1300 may be similar to other insulating containers described herein (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, etc.) and may include one or more of the other features described with respect to the insulating containers described herein. For example, the insulating container 1300 includes a lid 1304 and a base 1302. The lid 1304 can be secured to the base 1302 using latch arrangements 1320 similar to those mentioned above. In addition, the lid 1304 can be rotatable and / or removable from the base, as mentioned herein.

[126] The insulated container 1300 may include a tap 1380. The tap 1380 may protrude from the base 1302 and may be configured to dispense liquid stored in the insulated container. The tap 1380 may include a valve so that the liquid can be contained within the insulated container 1300 until a user wishes to dispense a portion of the liquid (for example, the valve is in the closed position by default). In this way, the valve can be opened to allow the liquid to flow through the tap 1380. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u When the desired amount of liquid has been dispensed, the valve can be closed to prevent further dispensing. In some examples, the 1380 tap may include an indicator, such as a color indicator, an audible indicator, etc., to show when the tap is open. Various types of tap arrangements can be used with the insulating vessel without departing from the invention.

[127] In the arrangement shown in Figure 22, the tap 1380 can be contained within a cavity 1382 formed in the base 1302. The tap 1380 can be contained almost entirely within the cavity 1382 to protect it from damage. For example, a sufficient impact on the tap 1380 can cause it to crack or break. Consequently, by positioning the tap 1380 within the cavity 1382, a large portion of the tap 1380 can be protected by the surrounding portion of the base 1302. In some instances, 100% of the tap 1380 (the entire tap) can be contained within the cavity 1382 so that no portion of the tap 1380 extends beyond an outer surface of the base 1302.In other examples, at least 90% of tap 1380 may be contained within the cavity (at most 10% of tap 580 may protrude beyond the outer wall 1314 of the base 1302), at least 75% of tap 1380 may be contained within the cavity (with 25% protruding outwards from the outer wall 1314), at least 50% may be contained within the cavity (with 50% protruding outwards from the outer wall 1314), at least 30% may be contained within the cavity (with 70% protruding outwards from the outer wall 1314), and so forth.

[128] Alternatively, the insulating vessel 500 may include one or more shields 1384 that can be used to protect the tap 1380. For example, the shield 1384 may extend outward from one edge of the cavity 1382, above the tap, to an opposite edge of the cavity 1382. Consequently, any object or force directed toward the tap 1380 would be intercepted by the shield 1382. The shield 1384 may be molded into the base 1302 or may be formed separately from the base 1302 and attached to it. The shield 1384 may be attached to the base 1302 using fasteners, a snap-on connector, adhesives, or the like. In some examples, the shield 1384 may be formed from various plastics, metals such as aluminum, steel, etc., composite materials, and the like.

[129] In arrangements that include a plurality of 1384 guards (such as Figure 22), the guards may be arranged so that portions of each guard extend parallel or substantially parallel to other 1384 guards. In some examples, the guard may include one or more 1385 portions that extend perpendicularly between the parallel 1384 guards. This may provide additional protection to the tap 1380 from small objects such as rocks, stones, or the like.

[130] The guard 1384 may be arranged around the tap 1380 so as not to interfere with the operation of the tap 1380. For example, a user may be able to easily access the valve portion of the tap 1380 to supply or stop the supply of liquid. Furthermore, in arrangements where the user can fill a RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u container such as a cup, a water bottle, or the like, of tap 1380, the guard 1384 can be arranged above the nozzle portion of tap 1380 so as not to interfere with the placement of the container.

[131] Figures 23 and 24 illustrate another tap protection arrangement 1394. The tap 1380 shown can be any suitable type of tap 580 and, as shown in Figure 24, can project through a side wall 1330 of the insulating vessel. In some examples, one or more portions of the tap 1380 can be formed from stainless steel, aluminum, composite and synthetic materials such as nylon, and the like.

[132] The tap arrangements shown in Figures 23 and 24 are shown in isolation. However, the tap 1380 shown can be used on various types of insulating vessels, including those described herein.

[133] Also, with reference to Figure 23, the tap guard 1394 projects outward from the side wall 1330 of the insulating vessel. The tap guard 1394 includes two side portions 1396 extending from the side wall 1330 and a center portion 1398 joining one end of each of the two side portions 1396. In some examples, as shown in Figure 23, the tap guard 1394 may have curved portions where the side portion 1396 joins one end of the center portion 1398. In other arrangements, the connection may be made at an angle, such as a right angle.

[134] The central portion 1398 extends over a top portion of tap 1380 to protect tap 1380 from damage. For example, an item dropped near or thrown toward the insulating vessel could break a tap in a conventional arrangement. However, tap guard 1394 can protect the tap from objects that could damage it.

[135] In some examples, the tap guard 1394 can be molded entirely into a side wall 1330 of the insulating vessel (e.g., one piece with the side wall or base). In another example, the tap guard 1394 can be formed as a separate piece and attached to the side wall 1330 using fasteners, adhesives, and the like.

[136] In some examples, as mentioned above, an insulating container may have one or more handles formed in the base portion. Figures 25-27 illustrate various additional handle arrangements that may be used with one or more of the insulating containers described herein. For example, Figure 25 illustrates an insulating container 1400 having a handle arrangement 1492 formed in the base 1402. The handle arrangement includes a bevel cut 1492 molded into the base portion 1402. Because the bevel cut handle 1492 is molded integrally with the base 1402, the handle is unlikely (or less likely) to break (e.g., if the insulating container is dropped, bumped, or the like). For example, the skew-cut handle 1492 is formed in alignment with an outer surface of the base 1402. Consequently, no portion of the handle 1492 protrudes outward from the base 1402.Handles that protrude outwards from the base may be more likely to break, etc. Although the angled cut handle 1492 is shown on one side of the base 1402, a second angled cut handle can be formed on an opposite side of the base 1402 to allow even transport of the insulating container. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u

[137] In some examples, the insulating container 1400 may include a second handle arrangement 1495 in addition to the angled handle 1492. For example, the insulating container may include a secondary handle 1495 that may be a piece formed separately from the base 1402 and connected to it. In some examples, the handle 1495 may be connected to the base 1402 at each of the two root portions 1496 (only one root portion is visible in Figure 25; however, a second root portion may extend from the opposite end of the crossbar 1497). The two root portions may be connected by a crossbar 1497 that may form the hand grip portion. The handle 1495 can rotate with respect to the base 1402 so that, when not in use, the handle can be received in the cavity 1498 formed in the side wall of the base 1402.When in use, the handle 1495 can be rotated out of the cavity 1498 so that a user can grip the crossbar 1497 to move the insulating container.

[138] In some arrangements, handle 1495 can be formed from various suitable materials, such as one or more plastics. For example, handle 1495 can have a core formed from polyvinyl chloride and an outer portion formed from ethylene vinyl acetate. Although Figure 25 shows handle 1495 to have a solid structure, in some arrangements, handle 1495 can have less structure and can instead be formed from rope (such as polyester rope) which can be durable.

[139] Although the arrangement in Figure 25 includes both handle 1492 and handle 1495, in some examples, the insulating container 1400 may include only handle 1492 or only handle 1495.

[140] Figure 26 illustrates another handle arrangement, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. The 1500 insulating container may be substantially similar to the other miscellaneous insulating containers described herein and may include one or more features mentioned with respect to other insulating containers described herein.

[141] The insulating container 1500 may include a beveled handle 1590 formed in the base 1502. Similar to the handle 1492, the handle 1590 may be aligned with the outer surface of the base 1502 to prevent breakage of the handle. In some arrangements, the insulating container 1500 may include a secondary handle arrangement 1595. The secondary handle 1595 may be similar to the handle 1495 mentioned with respect to Figure 25.

[142] Figure 27 illustrates yet another arrangement of insulating container 1600. The insulating container 1600 may be similar to other various insulating containers described herein and may include one or more features described with respect to those insulating containers.

[143] Similar to the insulating containers 1400 and 1500 shown in Figures 25 and 26, respectively, the insulating container 1600 includes a slant-cut handle 1690, as well as a secondary handle arrangement 1695. In some examples, the insulating container 1600 may include only the slant-cut handle 1690.

[144] Figure 28 illustrates an example of an insulating vessel 1700 having an example tap arrangement 1780 and tap guard 1784 in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. The example tap arrangements 1780 and / or tap guard 1784 described RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u herein may be used alone or in combination with various different insulating containers and are not limited to use only with the insulating container shown in the figures or described herein.

[145] Similar to one or more of the various arrangements described herein, the insulating container 1700 may include a base portion 1702 having a plurality of sides 1714 forming a side-wall structure and a bottom portion (not shown in Figure 28). The side-wall structure and the bottom portion forming the base 1702 may define an interior void of the insulating container (similar to other various interior void arrangements mentioned herein). The insulating container 1700 may, in at least some examples, include a lid 1704. Similar to one or more of the various arrangements described herein, the insulating container 1700 may include a tap 1780 extending through a side 1714 of the base portion 1702 and between an interior void of the insulating container 1700 and an exterior void of the insulating container 1700.Tap 1780 can be configured to permit and / or control the flow of fluid stored in the vacuum inside the insulating vessel from the vacuum inside to the outside of the insulating vessel 1700 (for example, to supply fluid). Tap 1780 will be discussed in more detail with reference to Figures 29-32.

[146] As shown in Figure 32, the tap 1780 can, in general, include three rows. A first row 1780a can extend outwards from the outside of a side 1714 of the insulating vessel 1700. A second row 1780b can extend through a side 1714 of the insulating vessel 1700 (for example, it can be inside the side wall of the insulating vessel and therefore not generally visible when the tap 1780 is installed). A third region 1780c can extend inwards from the inside of a side 1714 of the insulating vessel, towards the interior void of the insulating vessel.

[147] As shown in Figures 29-32, the tap 1780 can be configured to be disassembled and removed from the insulating vessel (e.g., for cleaning, etc.) and reassembled inside the insulating vessel 1700. For example, the tap 1780 may include a tap body 1785 having a nozzle 1782 extending from it (e.g., downward, at an angle) to supply fluid. The tap body 1785 can be configured to store portions of the tap assembly, such as a spring 1786, portions of a tap valve rod 1787, and the like, when the tap 1780 is mounted in the insulating vessel 1700.

[148] In some examples, the tap valve rod 1787 (when assembled) can be extended through the tap body 1785 when assembled, via the spring 1786, and can be inserted (for example, by means of the threaded end region 1788 shown in Figure 30) into a delivery button 1781. The button 1781 can include a finger-grip portion 1781a that a user can press to deliver fluid. The button 1781 can further include an inner portion 1781b that can be configured to be received in an opening 1790 formed in one end of the tap body 1785.

[149] In some examples, the opening 1790 may include one or more flat portions (for example, the flat portion 1791 shown in Figure 31) that may prevent the button 1781 from rotating during use. For example, when mounted, the inner portion 1781b of the Button 1781 can be received in the opening 1790 and can be brought into contact with an interior of the opening, which includes the flat portion 1791. Consequently, any attempt to rotate the button, whether during use or assembly, can be reduced or prevented by the flat portion 1791 coming into contact with the interior portion 1781b of the button 1781. While one flat portion 1791 is shown, additional flat portions or other shapes that can prevent rotation of the button 1781 without departing from the invention may be used.

[150] The tap assembly 1780 will be discussed with reference to Figure 30. As mentioned above, the tap assembly 1780 can be configured to be disassembled and reassembled to allow cleaning of one or more parts of the tap assembly 1780. The tap assembly 1780 may involve extending the tap valve rod 1787 through a wall 1714 of the insulating vessel 1700 and through the tap body 1785 and spring 1786 and into the button 1781. The threaded end 1788 of the threaded valve rod may be screwed into or otherwise connected to the button 1781 when assembled. For example, the threaded portion 1788 of the tap valve rod 1787 may be received by means of a mating threaded portion inside the button 1781.

[151] Tap nut 1784 can be connected to tap assembly 1780 from inside the insulating vessel 1700 to connect tap 1780. For example, tap nut 1784 can be screwed onto the threaded portion 1783 of tap body 1785 to secure tap assembly 1780 in place inside the insulating vessel 1700. A mounted tap assembly (shown in isolation without the insulating vessel) is shown in Figures 29 and 32.

[152] The 1780 tap assembly and its portions can be formed from various suitable materials. For example, one or more tap assembly components can be formed from stainless steel, plastic, composite materials, or other suitable materials.

[153] Also, with reference to Figure 28, the insulating vessel 1700 may include a tap guard 1794. The tap guard 1794 shown can be used in combination with the tap assembly 1780 shown, with another tap assembly, or similar. The tap guard 1791 can be arranged on the same side 1714 of the insulating vessel as the tap 1780 and can be configured to protect the tap 1780 in the event that the insulating vessel 1700 is subjected to an impact force (e.g., being dropped, struck, or similar). The tap guard 1794 will be discussed in more detail herein with reference to Figures 33-36.

[154] For example, tap guard 1794 may be arranged on a side 1714 of the insulating vessel 1700 in a location close to tap 1780. In some arrangements, tap guard 1794 may include side tap guards 1795a, 1795b and a cross tap guard 1796.

[155] For example, as shown in Figures 33 and 34, tap guard 1794 may include two tap side guards 1795a, 1795b arranged on each side of a tap region (for example, a region from which tap 1780 projects from the insulating vessel 1700). In some examples, the tap side guards 1795a, 1795b are RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u can be integrally formed with the base portion (e.g., side wall structure, wall, etc.) of the insulating vessel 1700. For example, tap side guards 1795a, 1795b can be molded into the side 1714 of the insulating vessel 1700 during the vessel's formation. Consequently, in some instances, tap side guards 1795a, 1795b can be formed as a single piece with the base of the insulating vessel 1700. This can contribute to efficient insulating vessel manufacturing. Furthermore, tap side guards 1795a, 1795b can be formed as solid portions of material or as hollow guards to provide additional insulation within a void created by the hollow side guards 1795a, 1795b. The tap side guards 1795a, 1795b may be double-walled, similarly to the double-walled arrangements used in the base 1702 and / or cap 1704.

[156] As shown in the figures, the tap side guards 1795a, 1795b may project outward from the side 1714 of the insulating vessel 1700. For example, at least a portion of the tap side guards 1795a, 1795b may project outward from an outer surface of the side 1714 of the insulating vessel 1700 to protect the tap 1780 from, for example, a shear force. In some arrangements, the tap side guards 1795a, 1795b may project outward by 50 to 60 millimeters from the outer surface of the side 1714.

[157] In some examples, the tap side guards 1795a, 1795b can be tapered from one end of the tap side guard 1795a, 1795b to an opposite end of the tap side guard 1795a, 1795b. For example, as shown in at least Figure 34, the tap side guard 1795b can extend a greater distance outward from the side 1714 of the insulating vessel 1700 at an end near a bottom portion of the insulating vessel 1700 than at a distal end of the bottom portion of the insulating vessel 1700. This optimized arrangement can accommodate the tap cross guard 1796.

[158] For example, as mentioned above, tap guard 1794 may include a cross tap guard 1796. As shown in the figures, the cross tap guard 1796 may extend horizontally over a tap region and between the first side tap guard 1795a and the second side tap guard 1795b. The side tap guard 1796 may protect the tap from, for example, objects falling downwards onto tap 1780.

[159] In some examples, the tap cross guard 1796 can be formed as a separate component from the rest of the insulating vessel 1700 or the base 1702 of the insulating vessel 1700. The tap cross guard 1796 can, in that case, be connected to the base 1702 by one or more fasteners, such as screws, adhesives, or the like. For example, screws or other fasteners can be inserted through the openings 1797 in the tap cross guard 1796 to connect the tap cross guard 1796 to the base 1702 of the insulating vessel 1700.

[160] The cross protection of tap 1796 can be formed from one or more suitable materials, such as various metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, and the like. In some RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u examples, the cross protection of tap 1796 can be formed from one or more plastics or composite materials.

[161] In some examples, portions of the tap cross guard 1796 may extend outward from the outer surface of the side 1714 of the insulating vessel 1700. For example, the tap cross guard 1796 may have a tapering arrangement such that a first end and a second end are substantially aligned with and / or in contact with the outer surface of the side 1714, while a central portion extending between the first and second ends may project outward, away from the outer surface of the side 1714, thereby forming a space between the tap cross guard 1796 and the outer surface of the side 1714 of the insulating vessel. In some examples, the outer surface of the side 1714 may correspond to a recessed area in which the tap 1780 is disposed.Consequently, in these example arrangements, the space can be formed between the cross tap protection 1796 and the hollowed-out outer surface of the side 1714 of the insulating container.

[162] In some examples, this space may be large enough to be used as a handle for lifting the insulating vessel 1700. For example, the distance A between an outside surface of the center region of the tap cross guard 1796 and an inside-facing surface of the first and second ends of the tap cross guard 1796 may be between 0.75 and 2.0 inches. In addition, a length B of the center portion of the tap cross guard 1796 may be between 2 inches and 6 inches, in some example arrangements.

[163] Tap arrangements and tap guards can be used in combination with one or more different aspects of various insulating vessels, including, for example, the insulating vessels described herein. As mentioned herein, the tap arrangement allows for easy assembly / disassembly to simplify tap cleaning. Tap guards can also help prevent or reduce damage to the tap if the insulating vessel is bumped, dropped, etc. For example, the shape and position of side tap guards can help reduce or prevent damage to the tap if the insulating vessel is subjected to, for example, a lateral or frontal force. Cross tap guards can help prevent or reduce damage to the tap if the insulating vessel is subjected to, for example, a downward force along the front face or a frontal force.The tap protection provisions described herein may help to prevent or reduce damage to the tap from additional forces or force directions.

[164] As shown in Figures 37-43, other aspects of this disclosure relate to an insulating vessel configured to be aligned with and mounted on an insulating vessel assembly 1810. Similar to the preceding examples, the insulating vessel 1800 may comprise a tap 1880 and a lid 1804 that can be nondestructively and detachably attached to it according to this disclosure. The base portion 1814 may be an insulating structure that forms a vacuum for containing a liquid or other substance. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u contents that are to be kept hot or cold. Also, as in the previous examples, the insulating container is configured to include a tap guard 1881 and a notch 1811 on the front of the assembly 1810 to fit the tap 1880. In another example, the insulating container can be configured to dispense fluid while secured to the insulating container assembly 1810. In another example, the insulating container 1800 is mounted onto the insulating container assembly 1810 and secured in place by one or more hook points or flat hooks 1840. The container assembly 1810 provides a flat surface that can be placed on the ground or mounted on, for example, a vehicle or boat. The insulating container 1800 can be placed on or attached to the container assembly 1810.

[165] The 1810 vessel assembly is configured so that the lower surface 108 of the 1800 insulating vessel fits into the 1810 assembly, which is specifically formed to match the profile of the lower surface 108 of the 1800 insulating vessel. This arrangement allows the 1800 vessel and the 1810 assembly to be securely coupled together to stabilize and secure the 1800 insulating vessel. The 1810 assembly provides a stable platform, and the 1800 insulating vessel can be further secured to the assembly by 1850 straps that prevent movement of the 1800 insulating vessel. Alternatively, the 1810 insulating vessel assembly itself can be secured to a base or surface, such as a vessel deck or vehicle floor, without the 1800 insulating vessel.Such a configuration allows an individual to easily remove the insulated container 1800 from, for example, a vehicle after transport or refilling. The configuration then allows an individual to quickly place the insulated container 1800 back into the mounting 1810, where it can be secured again for transport. In other examples, the straps 1850 can secure the insulated container 1800 to the mounting 1810 so that the hinged locking lid 1804 can rotate from a closed position to an open position, which is approximately 270° from the closed position, to allow refilling or access to the contents stored therein while mounted, and / or to be non-destructively removable (for example, removable and replaceable) from a base portion 1814 of the insulated container 1800.Alternatively, the 1810 assembly is configured so that when the 1800 insulated container is attached and secured to the 1810 assembly, an individual can use the tap or nozzle 1880 provided on the 1800 insulated container to dispense liquids or other fluids. These and other features and aspects of the insulated container assembly will be described in greater detail herein.

[166] Figure 40A represents the top portion of the 1890 anchor points, 1830 ratchet buckle, and 1840 hook or flat hook. In another example, the assembly includes a plurality of 1890 anchor points configured to receive the insulating container. In this instance, four 1890 anchor points are provided; however, it is contemplated that more or fewer may be included. In some examples, the anchor points are configured to include an 1891 anchor point receptacle. In other configurations, the anchor point and / or the anchor point receptacle may be configured to secure the assembly to a platform by means of a bolt, screw, mandrel, weld, or other fastening means. Even in In other examples, the bottom of the anchor point may include a type of anti-slip material to prevent the mount from sliding or moving on a platform or floor. In other examples, the anti-slip material may include anti-slip paint, tape, or pads, anti-slip tape or pads, rubber (e.g., EPDM rubber or neoprene), or another composite or synthetic material. In other examples, the anchor point may include a material that reduces friction with a platform or floor and allows for easy movement of the mount. In such a configuration, the mount may be attached with or without the insulating container.

[167] Figure 37 is a front view, and Figure 39 shows right and left side views of the insulating vessel 1800 mounted on the insulating vessel assembly 1810. Additionally, Figure 40A shows a top view of the assembly 1810, and Figure 40B shows a front view of the assembly with the hook points or flat hooks 1840 folded back into the loop point or slot 1861 when the insulating vessel is not fitted to the assembly. Figure 40C is a side view of the folded tie-down strap 1850. Figure 41 shows a front view, Figure 42 shows a right top perspective view, and Figure 43 shows a right view of the insulating vessel assembly 1810 without the insulating vessel 1800. In some examples, the insulating vessel assembly 1810 supports the base portion 1814, and the assembly 1810 may be cuboid or substantially cuboid in shape.In other examples, the assembly 1810 may be prismoidal or substantially prismoidal in shape (for example, a pentagonal prism, hexagonal prism, heptagonal prism, or the like). In still other examples, the assembly 1810 may be substantially cylindrical or have a substantially trapezoidal cross-section. Other shapes may be used without departing from the invention. In still other examples, the assembly has the required shape configured to accept the insulating container. The assembly 1810 may include a notch 1811 on the front of the assembly 1810 to accept the tap 1880.

[168] In some examples, the side portions of the insulating container may include one or more slot-shaped hook-point fastener receptacles 1820. Hook-point or flat-hook fasteners 1840 located on the tie-down straps 1850 are configured to secure to the slot-shaped hook-point or slot-shaped fastener receptacles 1820, thereby securing the insulating container 1800 to the insulating container assembly 1810. The hook-point or flat-hook fasteners 1840 may alternatively be a metal S-hook, a rubber-coated S-hook, a grab hook, etc. The hook-point or flat-hook fastener 1840 may also include a hook-point loop 1841 for securing the tie-down straps or webbing 1850 to the hook-point loops 1841.Even in other examples, the 1850 lashing straps or ties may include one or more 1830 cam buckles or D-rings to adjust the length of the 1850 straps and to provide tension to the 1850 straps to retain the 1800 insulating vessel in the 1810 vessel assembly. In some examples, the 1830 cam buckle or ratchet buckle may be a ratchet buckle, O-ring, staple, spring pin, sliding buckle, loop, strap adjuster, metal locking buckle, snap hook, hook, or release buckle. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u side, prong buckle, military-style buckle, aircraft seatbelt buckle, or carabiner. The hook point loop 1841, hook point fastener or flat hook 1840, and cam or ratchet buckle 1830 can be formed from stainless steel, aluminum, composite and synthetic materials such as plastic, nylon, and the like. The tie-down strap 1850 can be formed from synthetic materials such as nylon, polyester, webbing, belt webbing, tubular webbing, biotane, and the like. In other examples, flat hooks, tie-down straps, and ratchet buckles can be replaced by other devices such as quarter-turn fasteners, ball joint connectors, bungee cords, cables, chains, etc.

[169] In some examples, the insulating vessel assembly 1810 is configured to allow access to the interior vacuum or chamber of the insulating vessel when the insulating vessel is secured to the assembly. For example, if the assembly 1810 is secured to a platform on a vehicle, an individual may still access the interior vacuum of the insulating vessel to remove an object or to place an object into the vessel. In another example, the insulating vessel is secured to the assembly 1810 so that the tap 1880 can be accessed to dispense a fluid. In another example, as shown in Figures 39 and 40, the insulating vessel assembly 1810 includes one or more locking points 1870 that can be used to secure the assembly 1810 to any suitable platform or other object. The locking points 1870 are configured to receive a padlock, cable, chain, detachable fastener, or other means to protect the assembly from theft or other loss.The 1870 locking points may be in the form of an elongated slot so that, for example, a padlock, cable, chain, removable fastening element or other means may be inserted into the 1870 locking points to secure the mounting of the 1810 container.

[170] In another example, the 1810 assembly includes a hook-point or slot fastener receiver 1860. As shown in Figures 40A-C, the hook-point or slot fastener receiver 1860 is configured to allow the strap 1850 to be wrapped over the top of the insulating vessel assembly 1810 when the vessel is not in use. The cam- or ratchet buckle 1830 can be positioned on the bottom of the assembly instead of on the side, and the hook-point or flat-hook fastener 1840 is configured to include a hook-point loop 1841 that secures to the hook-point fastener receiver 1860. Figure 43 is a right-side view of the insulating vessel assembly.In some examples, the insulating container assembly is configured to include an elongated slot or loop point 1861 that can be configured to receive at least one strap 1850, and the strap 1850 can be configured to secure the insulating container to the assembly. In another example, the tie-down strap 1850 is configured to wrap under and around the mounting plate and under the loop point or slot 1861, as shown in Figures 39, 42, and 43, when the insulating container is secured to the assembly. In another example, the base 1810 includes one or more hook-point fastener receivers 1860 and one or more locking points 1870. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u

[171] As also depicted in Figure 42, the vessel assembly 1810 may include a fully assembled base plate 1892 in the central portion of the vessel assembly 1810. The base plate 1892 may be positioned on top of the base assembly 1894 and may project upward from the base assembly. The base plate 1892 may be recessed or raised. In one example, the base plate 1892 may be molded as a single unit with the vessel assembly 1810 or attached to the vessel assembly 1810 by a mechanical fastener, adhesives, and other permanent or removable attachment methods. In another example, the base plate 1892 projects upward and is configured to engage a cavity (not shown) located in the bottom of the insulating vessel. In another example, the 1892 baseplate may include a logo or brand engraved, molded, or stamped on the 1892 baseplate and / or on the top of the mounting base.In another example, the insulating vessel assembly may include side walls 1893. In another example, the assembly may include a plurality of anchor points 1890 configured to receive the insulating vessel. In some examples, the anchor points are configured to include anchor point receptacles 1891 as shown in Figure 42. As shown in Figure 42, the anchor point receptacles 1891 may include a series of concentric cylindrical openings configured to match the shape of the lower surface 108 of the insulating vessel 1800, so that when the vessel is mounted in the vessel assembly 1810, the shape of the anchor point receptacles 1891 and / or the recessed or raised base plate 1892 allows the insulating vessel to be mounted and / or secured more easily.

[172] As mentioned above, Figures 15A-15E illustrate an alternative gasket arrangement configured to seal the insulating vessel 1800 to prevent leakage of liquids, and wherein the insulating vessel is also configured to be aligned and mounted on an insulating vessel assembly 1810. Similar to the foregoing examples, the insulating vessel 1800 may comprise a tap 1880, a gasket 1560, and a lid 1804 that can be attached thereto in a detachable and nondestructive manner in accordance with the disclosure herein.

[173] The insulated containers described herein include various features that ensure easy and efficient manufacturing of the insulated containers, while also providing durability and wear resistance. The insulated containers and the various fully molded features, such as handles, a tap cavity, tap protection, etc., can be advantageous in improving durability and wear resistance. In addition, the various lid arrangements described herein can help secure the lid to the base in both the open and closed configurations, and can help prevent breakage and / or loss of the lid.

[174] The insulating container mount described herein may be used to secure the insulating container described herein to a stable base or other platform. The insulating container mount may be configured to be permanently or temporarily pre-positioned in a specific location, such as a vehicle or vessel, and allows an individual to place the insulating container into the mount. The insulating container is RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u can permanently or temporarily secure the assembly for as long as the Individual may need to remove the insulating container.

[175] The present disclosure was previously disclosed and in the accompanying drawings with reference to a variety of examples. The purpose of the disclosure, however, is to provide examples of the various features and concepts related to the disclosure, but not to limit the scope of the invention. A person of average skill will recognize that numerous variations and modifications can be made to the examples described above without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An insulating container comprising: a base including: a sidewall structure having a plurality of sides; a bottom portion connected to a first end of each side of the plurality of sides of the sidewall structure, wherein the bottom portion is configured to support the insulating container on a surface; an opening formed at a second end of each side of the plurality of sides of the sidewall structure, opposite the first end of each side of the plurality of sides of the sidewall structure, wherein the opening is configured to allow access to an interior void of the insulating container formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion, and wherein a gasket is configured to seal the opening when a lid is in a closed position, wherein the gasket also includes a root, a first side, and a second side;wherein the root also includes a plurality of prongs, and wherein the prongs are configured to be inserted into a cavity in a lower portion of the cap; wherein the first side connects to the root, and wherein the first side is substantially perpendicular to the root; wherein the second side extends from the first side at an angle of about 30-60 degrees; wherein the first side and the second side form a V-shaped extension; wherein the V-shaped extension is configured to extend distally from the root; and a tap extending through a first side of the sidewall structure, wherein the tap is configured to supply fluid stored in the internal vacuum, and wherein the tap also includes: a tap body including a nozzle for supplying the fluid;and a threaded valve rod extending through the tap body and having a threaded end configured to engage a tap button, wherein the tap button is configured to control a flow of fluid from the internal vacuum, and wherein the button connects to the threaded end of the threaded valve rod.

2. The insulating container according to claim 1, wherein the gasket is substantially square or substantially rectangular in shape.

3. The insulating container according to claim 1, wherein the gasket also includes at least one ventilation hole. RCLQnn / Lznz / e / Yi / u 4. The insulating container according to claim 1, wherein the gasket is constructed of flexible PVC.

5. The insulating container according to claim 1, wherein the gasket is fixed in a cavity in a lower portion of the lid, and wherein the cavity extends along a perimeter of the lower portion of the lid.

6. A gasket for an insulating container comprising: a root, wherein the root also includes a plurality of prongs, and wherein the prongs are configured to be inserted into a cavity in a lower portion of the lid; a first side, wherein the first side connects to the root, and wherein the first side is configured substantially perpendicular to the root; a second side, wherein the second side is configured to extend from the first side at an angle of about 30-60 degrees, and wherein the first side and the second side form a V-shaped extension; and a plurality of vent holes, wherein the vent holes extend from an outer edge of a gasket wall to an inner gasket wall, and wherein the vent hole provides a conduit to an interior void of the insulating container.

7. The gasket according to claim 6, further comprising an insulating container having a plurality of sides forming a sidewall structure, an opening, and a lid, wherein the gasket is configured to seal the opening when the lid is in a closed position, wherein the gasket is substantially square or substantially rectangular in shape, and wherein the vent holes are configured to vent the interior vacuum of the insulating container, wherein the interior vacuum is formed by a sidewall structure and a lower portion of the insulating container when the lid is in a closed position.

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