Portable Misting Fan and Cooler Lid

Abstract

A motorized cooler lid device is disclosed for easily circulating air flow and providing a cooling mist in extreme heat. The motorized cooler lid device comprises a body component that is configured in a circular shape and comprised of a bracket, shaft, siphon tube and motor. The body component comprises a cover for the battery while in use. The bracket can be adjusted to accommodate fans varying in size. Further, the motor oscillates the fan in varying speeds and releases a mist at varying levels. Further, the lid comprises a battery-operated motor which is rechargeable and adjustable.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 632,760, which was filed on Apr. 11, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of fan devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to an improved cooler lid and portable fan. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices and methods of manufacture.BACKGROUND

[0003] By way of background, this invention relates to improvements in fan devices. Generally, spending an extensive amount of time outdoors when the temperatures are extremely high can become uncomfortable and even unbearable for many. Further, without a breeze, trees, or other forms of shade, individuals may suffer from dehydration, heat stroke, and other heat-related ailments. Furthermore, transporting large cooling devices or fans is not practical, especially when working, camping, traveling, or visiting outdoor parks and leisure activities. Users need an easy and convenient way to enjoy the outdoors without the worry of experiencing heat-related illnesses.

[0004] Further, individuals that enjoy spending extensive time outdoors experience mosquitos and insects that become a nuisance with their presence and bites or stings. Even further, users may find that spending time outdoors with young children or elderly individuals is challenging with extreme temperatures. Often, young children and elderly people are at higher risk for dehydration, heat stroke, or further heat-related illnesses. Without a cooling fan or similar device, the outdoor enthusiast may need to limit their time outside to avoid potential heat-related injuries. However, most fans and cooling devices are not portable, bulky, heavy, and inconvenient to transport and use without a power source nearby.

[0005] Accordingly, there is a demand for an improved misting fan device that provides a lid with an adjustable bracket that offers relief from heat and insects when outdoors. More particularly, there is a demand for a cooler lid device that easy to transport and store.

[0006] Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a cooler lid that provides users with a fan support device. There is also a long-felt need in the art for a cooler lid device that utilizes ice-cold water rather than ambient-temperature water. There is also a long-felt need in the art for a cooler lid that comprises an adjustable bracket to accommodate various-size misting fans. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a cooler lid that converts misting fans into oscillating fans to provide airflow and cool down multiple users. There is also a long-felt need in the art for a device that has a rechargeable battery. Moreover, there is a long-felt need in the art for a device that is weather and rust resistance to accommodate a variety of weather conditions. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a cooler lid device that allows a user to easily add ice and water to the cooler. Finally, there is a long felt need in the art for a cooler lid device that is easy to store and transport for a variety of outdoor leisure activities.

[0007] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a cooler lid device. The device is comprised of a multipurpose cooler lid that is portable and easily adjusts to support fans in a plurality of sizes. The cooler lid device comprises a body component that is configured in a circular shape and comprised of a bracket, battery pack, motor for oscillation and siphoning tube. The bracket is adjustable to support fans of multiple sizes. The bracket is attached to a shaft from a motor inside the lid to oscillate the fan. The bracket, with the shaft are secured to the lid for enhanced support. Further, the lid is comprised of at least one through opening for a tube to siphon the water or suitable liquid to provide a mist for cooling, watering, and other suitable purposes.

[0008] In this manner, the cooler fan lid device of the present invention accomplishes all of the forgoing objectives and provides users with a device that provides a lid and fan support for a cooler to improve outdoor activities and experiences. The device has a battery operated oscillation motor and an adjustable bracket to accommodate various size fans. The device is lightweight for easy storage and transportation.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0010] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a cooler lid and fan device. The device is a specialized cooler lid for easily supporting a fan to circulate air and provides a cool mist to reduce the potentially harmful effects of extremely hot outdoor temperatures and less desirable elements of weather. The cooler lid and fan device comprises a base with at least one opening to house the siphon tube. The siphon tube serves as the passageway for the cooled water to flow and create a mist via the oscillating fan. The base component is preferably secured to, but not limited to a five-gallon bucket or cooler. Further, the lid comprises a battery operated motor, which is rechargeable and a dial to adjust the arc and speed of the oscillating bracket.

[0011] The present invention is directed to a motorized cooler lid device that has particular utility in supporting fans, creating a wider field of airflow, and providing a cool mess while participating in outdoor activities such as working, camping, hiking, swimming, sunbathing, and other outdoor pastimes. In the present invention, the motorized cooler lid device can be adjusted easily to accommodate fans of various sizes and shapes. Although the device is designed to accommodate a cylinder shaped five-gallon cooler or bucket, the device can be designed in a variety of shapes and sizes as is known in the art. Accordingly, the lid comprises a snap system or threads to secure the device to a cooler or bucket. Finally, the device comprises a rechargeable motor, to allow the flow of cold water or other liquid to travel through the siphon tube and create a mist via the fan, providing optimal air flow and a cooling breeze.

[0012] In one embodiment, the motorized cooler lid device comprises a body component that is configured in a circular shape, but can be any suitable shape and size as is known in the art. The body component comprises a snap rim or threads around the interior circumference of the lid to secure the device to a cooler or bucket. Thus, the body component can be secured by snapping the lid on or turning the lid to screw the device on using the threads located on the interior surface of the lid perimeter. The lid is typically acrylic, such as polymethyl methacrylate, but could also be manufactured of a durable plastic, as well.

[0013] In one embodiment, the body component comprises a rectangular shaped opening on the top surface. The opening houses the rechargeable batteries that power the motor. Further, the opening is covered with an airtight door and hinge feature to prevent the batteries from being exposed to water or other liquid substances. In one embodiment, the power source can be one or more rechargeable batteries or a port to an external power supply which powers the fan and cooler lid device. When a user wants the device to be portable, rechargeable batteries provide that option for ease and convenience. However, when a user has access to an external power source, using the port can be utilized as well.

[0014] In one embodiment, the fan and cooler lid device comprises shaft with at least one opening on the top surface. Specifically, the opening in the shaft allows the siphoning tube to pass through when engaged to provide the cooling mist. The shaft is configured in a cylinder shape; however, it can be manufactured in any suitable size and shape as is known in the art. Further, the shaft is used to connect the motor to the bracket to provide the power source to the adjustable bracket.

[0015] In one embodiment, the device comprises a motor, enclosed in the compartment of the lid. Further, the motor provides the power to oscillate the fan at varying speeds. In yet another embodiment, the device comprises a dial or knob to regulate the speed and arc of the cooling mist. Generally, users have different preferences and degrees of comfort regarding temperature and amount of cooling mist desired. Specifically, the dial allows users to set the device at their desired comfort level.

[0016] In one embodiment, the motorized cooler lid device comprises an adjustable mounting bracket secured to the shaft, via fasteners such as but not limited to a screw or anchor. The bracket can be any suitable shape and size as is known in the art. Typically, the device comprises a mounting bracket that rests on the top surface of the shaft. Specifically, a slide base mounting bracket that comprises at least one opening is used to accommodate fans of multiple sizes. Further, the bracket is preferably manufactured from a rust proof metal material, such as but not limited aluminum.

[0017] In yet another embodiment, the motorized fan lid device comprises a bracket with an oscillating feature. Generally, the fan is secured to the lid device via the adjustable mounting bracket and fasteners. The motor provides the power supply to the bracket for movement. In operation, a user engages the motor, providing power to put the bracket in motion and move the fan in an oscillating motion. Once the base component is powered, the oscillating and mist features can be engaged to an individuals desired level.

[0018] In one embodiment, the motorized cooler lid device comprises a tube that siphons the water or liquid from the bucket or cooler. The tube is preferably made of, but not limited to a flexible plastic material such as PVC or silicone. The tube can be any suitable shape and size as is known in the art.

[0019] In yet another embodiment, a method of easily cooling down individuals while outdoors is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing a cooler lid and fan device comprising a body component, adjustable bracket, shaft, and siphoning tube. The method also comprises securing the lid to a cooler or bucket via a snap on feature or screwing on via threads. Further, the method comprises adjusting the bracket to accommodate the fan size. The method also comprises securing the fan to the lid using the brackets via fasteners. The method also comprises filling the bucket or cooler with cold ice water. Moreover, the method comprises adjusting the knob to desired level and creating a breeze and / or mist. Finally, the method comprises removing the lid and emptying the bucket or cooler for storage.

[0020] Numerous benefits and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains, upon reading and understanding the following detailed specification.

[0021] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the portable misting fan and cooler lid device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the portable misting fan and cooler lid device of the present invention showing the interior of the fabric insert in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0025] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the portable misting fan and cooler lid device of the present invention showing the pockets of the fabric insert in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0026] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the portable misting fan and cooler lid device of the present invention showing how the fabric insert is secured to the metal frame in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0027] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the portable misting fan and cooler lid device of the present invention showing the wheels secured to the frame in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0028] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart showing the method of easily securing and utilizing the fan and cooler lid in accordance with the disclosed architecture.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0029] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0030] As noted above, there is a long felt need in the art for a cooler or bucket lid device that provides users with a fan support device. There is also a long felt need in the art for a cooler lid that comprises an adjustable bracket to accommodate various size misting fans. Further, there is a long felt need in the art for a cooler lid that converts misting fans into oscillating fans to provide air flow and cool down users. Specifically, there is a long felt need in the art for a cooler lid device that allows a user to easily add ice and water to the cooler or bucket. Moreover, there is also a long felt need in the art for a cooler lid that comprises an adjustable bracket to accommodate various size misting fans. Further, there is a long felt need in the art for a device that is weather and rust resistance to accommodate a variety of weather conditions. There is also a long felt need in the art for a device that has a rechargeable battery or port for power. Finally, there is a long felt need in the art for a cooler lid device that is easy to store and transport for a variety of outdoor leisure activities.

[0031] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a novel cooling lid device. The cooler lid device comprises a body component that is configured in a circular shape and comprised of a bracket, shaft, and siphoning tube. The bracket comprises a sliding base and is adjustable to accommodate fans of a variety of sizes. The shaft allows the siphoning to pass through and provide a passageway for the cold water to flow and create a mist via the fan. Further, the body component comprises a battery-operated motor which is rechargeable and a knob to control the speed and arc of the Oscillation of the fan bracket. The present invention also includes a novel method of easily cooling down individuals while outdoors is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing a cooler lid and fan device comprising a body component, adjustable bracket, shaft, and siphoning tube. The method also comprises securing the lid to a cooler or bucket via a snap on feature or screwing on via threads. Further, the method comprises adjusting the bracket to accommodate the fan size. The method also comprises securing the fan to the lid using the brackets via fasteners. The method also comprises filling the bucket with ice and water. Moreover, the method comprises adjusting the knob to desired level and creating a breeze and / or mist. Finally, the method comprises removing the lid and emptying the bucket or cooler for storage.

[0032] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the portable misting fan and cooler lid device 100 of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the portable misting fan and cooler lid device 100 is an improved misting fan device 100 that provides a user with multiple purpose lid 110 that allows users to reduce body temperature, increase air flow, water plants, and deter insects while outside.

[0033] The lid 110 can be used as a bucket 30 lid, a cooler lid 20, etc. or the lid of any type of container capable of holding water. Specifically, the portable misting fan and cooler lid device 100 comprises a body component 110 with a motor with shaft 114, a siphon tube 116, and an adjustable bracket 120. The body component 110 is preferably (but not limited to) circular in shape and comprises a securing system 112 to attach the body 110 to a cooler 20, bucket 30, etc. The securing system 112 may include but is not limited a threaded fastener, a snap-on fastener, a clip-on fastener, a clamping fastener, etc. The body 110 is preferably acrylic, such as polymethyl methacrylate, but could also be manufactured of a durable plastic or other rust resistance material, as well.

[0034] The device 100 can accommodate fans 10 of a variety of sizes with at least one adjustable bracket 120. In one embodiment, a fan 10 is fixedly attached to the bracket 120. In another embodiment, a fan 10 is removably attached to the bracket 120. The fan 120 may be any style and configuration of fan known in the art. The bracket 120 may be a telescopic bracket that can adjust in width to accommodate and secure fans of various widths and configurations in a removable fan embodiment. In one embodiment, the bracket 120 can be locked at a desired position with via at least one locking mechanism 121 (as seen in FIG. 2), such as but not limited to a locking button. Further, at least one opening 122 on the bracket 120 (as seen in FIG. 3) allows at least one fastener 124 (such as but not limited to a bolt) to be used to secure the fan 10 to the bracket 120 by placing the fastener 124 through the opening 122 and into the fan 10 (as seen in FIG. 5). However, the fastener 124 may be any fastener type in different embodiments.

[0035] Further, the adjustable bracket 120 may comprise a knob or dial 126 that allows a user to oscillate a fan 10 attached to the bracket 120 in an embodiment wherein the shaft 114 is a motorized, wherein the oscillation / rotate of the shaft 114 by the motor 130 (as seen in FIG. 4) can be selected remotely or by the knob or dial 126. In this embodiment, the shaft 114 can rotate 0 to 360 degrees relative to a vertical axis of the lid body 110 (and / or more specifically a top surface of the lid 110). In another embodiment, the shaft 114 may be non-motorized but may still rotate in the manner described to allow a user to freely position the fan 10 during use. As a result, mist and air from the fan can span a larger area. During use, the device 100 is used to create a cooling mist and air flow for users while outside to prevent or reduce heat related ailments, such as heat stroke and dehydration. Further, the oscillating feature on the device 100 can be used to water plants or keep unwanted insects away with the air flow and breeze created by the device 100.

[0036] Further, the device 100 has a siphon tube 116. In one embodiment, the tube 116 is positioned within the shaft 114. During use, ice cold water within the cooler 20 and / or bucket 30 flows through the siphon tube 116 (propelled by at least one motor 130) wherein the siphon tube 116 is positioned within the fan 10 to create a mist as the fan blows air. The motor 130 is powered by at least one battery 132. The battery 132 may be rechargeable or non-rechargeable and removable or non-removable. The battery 132 may be rechargeable via at least one charging port 133 such as but not limited to a USB port.

[0037] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of the method of easily securing and utilizing the fan and cooler lid. The method includes the steps of at 600, providing a motorized fan and cooler lid device comprising a body 110 component with a bracket 120, shaft 114, tube 116, and motor 130. The method also comprises at 602, securing the lid to a cooler 20 or bucket 30 using a fastening system 112. Further, the method comprises at 604, adjusting the bracket 120 to accommodate a fan 10. The method also comprises at 606, securing the fan 10 to the bracket 120 via placing a fastener 124 through the bracket 120 and into the fan 10. Further, the method comprises at 608 filling the bucket 30 with ice and water, wherein the tube 116 sits within the water and the tube 116 is placed within the fan 10. The method comprises at 610, adjusting the knob to oscillate the fan 10 to desired speed via selecting a speed of the shaft 114 while the fan 10 is powered on to create a misted air. Finally, the method comprises at 612, removing the lid 110 from the cooler 20 or bucket 30 and emptying the bucket 30 or cooler 20 for storage.

[0038] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different users may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “motorized fan and cooler lid device”, “cooler or bucket lid device”, “portable fan device”, “misting device”“lid device”, and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the motorized fan and cooler lid device 100 of the present invention.

[0039] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the motorized fan and cooler lid device 100 of the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the motorized fan and cooler lid device 100 as shown in FIGS. 1-6 is for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the motorized fan and cooler lid device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the motorized fan and cooler lid device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the motorized fan and cooler lid device 100 may be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and / or that suits the user's needs and / or preferences.

[0040] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0041] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

1. A portable misting fan and cooler lid device comprising:a lid comprised of:a shaft;a siphon tube;a bracket comprised of a locking mechanism;a motor; anda battery.

2. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 1, wherein the shaft rotates.

3. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 1, wherein the battery is comprised of a rechargeable battery.

4. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 3, wherein the battery is comprised of a charging port.

5. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 3, wherein the battery is comprised of a disposable battery.

6. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 1, wherein the motor rotates the shaft.

7. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 1, wherein the bracket is comprised of an adjustable width bracket.

8. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 7, wherein the locking mechanism secures the bracket at a width.

9. A portable misting fan and cooler lid device comprising:a lid comprised of:a motor;a motorized shaft rotated by the motor, the motorized shaft comprised of a dial;a siphon tube;a bracket attached to the shaft, the bracket comprised of an opening and a locking mechanism; anda battery.

10. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 9, wherein the dial controls a rotation or an oscillation of the motorized shaft.

11. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 9 further comprised of a fan.

12. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 11, wherein the siphon tube attaches to the fan.

13. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 11, wherein the fan attaches to the mounting bracket.

14. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 11, wherein the lid is comprised of a securing system.

15. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 14, wherein the securing system is comprised of a thread.

16. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 9, wherein the battery is removable from the lid.

17. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 9, wherein the battery is comprised of a charging port.

18. The portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 17, wherein the charging port was comprised of a USB port.

19. A method of using a portable misting fan and cooler lid device, the method comprising the following steps:providing a portable misting fan and cooler lid device comprised of a lid body comprised of a bracket, a shaft, a tube, and a motor;securing the lid body to a cooler or a bucket;securing a fan to the bracket;filling the cooler or a bucket with a cold water wherein the tube sits within the cooler or the bucket; andturning on the fan to create a misted air.

20. The method of using a portable misting fan and cooler lid device of claim 19, wherein the shaft is rotated by the motor which oscillates the fan.

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