Ice cooler

Abstract

A cooler having a body, a reservoir compartment, and a lid is provided. The body can define a storage compartment, which can include a drain. The reservoir compartment can be positioned underneath the storage compartment. The reservoir compartment can include a first port that aligns with the drain and places the reservoir compart- ment and the storage compartment in fluid communication. The lid can be configured to couple to a top portion of the body.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Not Applicable.BACKGROUNDTechnical Field

[0002] The technical field of the present disclosure relates to insulating devices, and more particularly to portable insulating devices for food and beverages.Description of Related Art

[0003] Ice coolers are used for a wide variety of indoor and outdoor applications that are typically used to preserve food and beverages. Conventional ice coolers are containers that have thick outer shells and inner liners that are made with insulating materials to reduce the heat transfer between the inside and outside of the cooler. A cold source, such as ice, is placed inside the cooler to absorb surrounding heat to maintain the contents of the container at a low temperature. However, conventional coolers can insulate the contents for a short period of time. Furthermore, conventional coolers eventually create a pool of water that can undesirably soak the contents of the coolers. Therefore, a need exists for an improved insulated cooler that maintains the contents of the cooler at colder temperatures longer. Additionally, a need exists for an improved cooler that prevents the contents from becoming water-soaked.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] This summary provides a discussion of aspects of certain embodiments of the invention. It is not intended to limit the claimed invention or any of the terms in the claims. The summary provides some aspects, but there are aspects and embodi- ments of the invention that are not discussed here.

[0005] In one aspect a cooler is provided. The cooler can include a body, a reservoir compartment, and a lid. The body can define a storage compartment, which can in- clude a drain. The reservoir compartment can be positioned below the storage com- partment. The reservoir compartment can include a first port that aligns with the drain and places the reservoir compartment and the storage compartment in fluid communication, and the lid can be configured to couple to a top portion of the body.

[0006] In one embodiment, the body can include a cavity positioned below the stor- age compartment and the reservoir compartment can be slidably inserted into the cavity.

[0007] In another embodiment, the body can include a cavity having a first engage- ment interface. The cavity can be positioned below the storage compartment, and the reservoir compartment can include a second engagement interface that is removably coupled with the first engagement interface. The first engagement interface can in- clude a first lip and the second engagement interface can include a second lip. The first lip can include a set of retractable protrusions configured to allow the first lip to fit within the second lip. Alternatively, the second lip can include a set of retractable protrusions configured to allow the second lip to fit within the first lip.

[0008] In another embodiment, the body can include a first set of lateral walls and a first bottom surface that define the storage compartment. The first bottom surface can include the drain.

[0009] The body can also include a lateral storage cavity formed between a second set of lateral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls. The body can also include a bottom storage cavity formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom surface. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cav- ity can be insulated. The insulation can be an aerogel, hydroxyethyl cellulose, sodium polyacrylate, superabsorbent polymer, vinyl-coated silica gel, diethylene glycol, eth- ylene glycol, or any combination thereof. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can be vacuum-sealed.

[0010] The drain can be positioned lower than the surrounding portions of the bot- tom surface. The drain can be located at a first end of the first bottom surface, and the first bottom surface can be angled such that the first end is lower than an oppos- ing second end. Alternatively, the drain can be located at a central point of the first bottom surface, and the first bottom surface can be angled such that the central point is positioned lower than the first end and the second end. The drain can include a second port that is configured to engage with the first port to selectively allow fluid to flow from the storage compartment to the reservoir compartment.

[0011] In another embodiment, a bottom portion of the lid can include a magnet configured to magnetically couple to an upper portion of the body. Alternatively, the upper portion of the body can comprise a magnet configured to magnetically couple to the bottom portion of the lid. Alternatively, the bottom portion of the lid can include a first magnet, and the upper portion of the body can include a second magnet config- ured to magnetically couple to the first magnet.

[0012] In another aspect, a cooler is provided. The cooler can include a body, a reservoir compartment, and a lid. The body can have a storage compartment and a cavity positioned below the storage compartment. The storage compartment can in- clude a drain having a first port. The reservoir compartment can be removably in- serted into the cavity. The reservoir compartment can include a second port that en- gages with the first port to selectively allow fluid communication between the storage compartment and the reservoir compartment. The lid can be configured to couple to a top portion of the body.

[0013] In one embodiment, the body can also include a first set of lateral walls and a first bottom surface that define the storage compartment. The first bottom surface can include the drain that can be positioned lower than the remaining portions of the first bottom surface. The drain can be located at a first end of the first bottom surface, and the first bottom surface can be angled such that the first end is lower than an opposing second end. Alternatively, the drain can be located at a central point of the first bottom surface, and the first bottom surface can be angled such that the central point is positioned lower than the first end and the second end.

[0014] The body can also include a lateral storage cavity and a bottom storage cav- ity. The lateral storage cavity can be formed between a second set of lateral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls. The bottom storage cavity can be formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom surface. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can be insulated. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can also be vacuum-sealed.

[0015] In another embodiment, the reservoir compartment can be slidably inserted into the cavity.

[0016] In another embodiment, the cavity can include a first engagement interface, and the reservoir compartment can include a second engagement interface removably coupled with the first engagement interface.

[0017] In yet another aspect, a cooler is provided. The cooler can include a body, a reservoir compartment, and a lid. The body can have a storage compartment and a cavity positioned below the storage compartment. The storage compartment can be defined by a first set of lateral walls and a first bottom surface. The first bottom sur- face can include a drain having a first port, and the drain can be positioned lower than the remaining portions of the first bottom surface. The reservoir compartment can include a second port that engages with the first port to selectively allow fluid communication between the storage compartment and the reservoir compartment. The lid can be configured to couple to a top portion of the body.

[0018] In one embodiment, the body can include a lateral storage cavity and a bot- tom storage cavity. The lateral storage cavity can be formed between a second set of lateral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls. The bottom storage cavity can be formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom sur- face. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can be insulated. The reservoir compartment can be slidably inserted into the cavity. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can also be vacuum-sealed.

[0019] In another embodiment, the body can include a lateral storage cavity and a bottom storage cavity. The lateral storage cavity can be formed between a second set of lateral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls. The bottom storage cav- ity can be formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom surface. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can be insulated. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can also be vacuum-sealed. The cavity can include a first engagement interface having a first lip, and the reser- voir compartment can include a second engagement interface having a second lip. The first lip can include a set of retractable protrusions configured to allow the first lip to fit within the second lip. Alternatively, the second lip can include a set of re- tractable protrusions configured to allow the second lip to fit within the first lip.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The preceding aspects and many of the attendant advantages of the present technology will become more readily appreciated by reference to the following De- tailed Description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying simplified draw- ings of example embodiments. The drawings briefly described below are presented for ease of explanation and do not limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0021] FIG. 1 depicts an exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of an insulated cooler.

[0022] FIG. 2 depicts a side elevated view of the first embodiment of the insu- lated cooler.

[0023] FIG. 3 depicts a cross-section side view of the first embodiment of the insulated cooler.

[0024] FIG. 4 depicts a side view of a simple form of the storage compartment and reservoir compartment of the first embodiment of the insulated cooler.

[0025] FIG. 5 depicts an end view of the first embodiment of the insulated cooler.

[0026] FIG. 6 depicts a top view of the first embodiment of the insulated cooler.

[0027] FIG. 7 depicts an exploded perspective view of a second embodiment of an insulated cooler.

[0028] FIG. 8 depicts a cross-section side view of the second embodiment of the insulated cooler.

[0029] FIG. 9 depicts an exploded perspective view of a third embodiment of an insulated cooler.

[0030] FIG. 10 depicts a cross-section side view of the third embodiment of the insulated cooler.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] With reference to FIG. 1, an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a cooler 100 is depicted. The cooler 100 includes a body 102, a reservoir compart- ment 108, and a lid 110. The body 102 can have a storage compartment 104 and a cavity 106 positioned below the storage compartment 104. The cavity 106 can be con- figured to receive the reservoir compartment 108, placing the reservoir compartment 108 in fluid communication with the storage compartment 104. As explained in fur- ther detail below, the reservoir compartment 108 can receive fluid (e.g., melted ice) from the storage compartment 104 via a reservoir port 130. The transfer of fluid into the reservoir compartment 108 advantageously allows for the storage compartment 104 to maintain ice (or cooling material) for maintaining a cool temperature for the contents in the storage compartment 104. The separation of the melted and solid ice helps maintain a lower cooling temperature in the storage compartment 104. Addi- tionally, the separation of the melted and solid ice helps prevent the contents of the storage compartment 104 from becoming saturated with water. For example, non- liquid-sealed objects (e.g., plastic baggies, unsealed food, etc.) can become soggy in conventional coolers when ice melts. The disclosed coolers, in contrast, eliminate this deficiency by draining the water before it can compromise the contents in the storage compartment 108. A handle 132 on the reservoir compartment 108 can help install or remove the reservoir compartment 108 from the cavity 106, which is also depicted in an end view of the cooler 100 of FIG. 5.

[0032] Turning to FIG. 6, a top view of the cooler 100 is depicted. In the illustra- tive embodiment, the body 102 includes a set of inner lateral walls 114 and a first bottom surface 116 that define the storage compartment 104. The first bottom surface 116 includes a drain 120 that is configured to align with the reservoir port (not illus- trated) to transfer fluid to the reservoir compartment (not illustrated). The body 102 can also include a set of outer lateral walls 112 to increase the thermal insulation between the storage compartment 104 and the environment. In one embodiment, a lateral cavity can be formed between the inner lateral walls 114 and the outer lateral walls 112 to be filled with insulating materials. In an alternative embodiment, the inner lateral walls 114 and the outer lateral walls 112 are formed from a unitary structure (i.e., not forming a cavity). The body 102, including the inner lateral walls 114 and outer lateral walls 112, can be made of polyurethane foam, expanded poly- styrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), or any combination thereof. Addition- ally, the inner lateral walls 114 and outer lateral walls 112 can be lined with high- density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, or any combination thereof. In embodiments where a lateral cavity is formed by the inner lateral walls 114 and the outer lateral walls 112, the inner lateral walls 114 can have a thickness of about 0.25 inches to about 1.5 inches, and the outer lateral walls 112 can have a thickness of about 0.75 inches to about 2.25 inches.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 4, a side view of a simple form of the storage compart- ment 104 and reservoir compartment 108 is depicted. The drain 120 can include a storage port 128, which can be configured to selectively allow fluid to flow between the storage compartment 104 and the reservoir compartment 108. The reservoir com- partment 108 can have a reservoir port 130 that is configured to engage with the storage port 128 to place the storage compartment 104 and the reservoir compart- ment 108 in selective fluid communication. In the illustrative embodiment, the stor- age port 128 can include a spring (not illustrated) that biases the storage port 128 to an extended closed position, thus preventing fluid flow from the storage compartment 104 when the storage port is in the closed position. When the reservoir compartment 108 is inserted into the cavity 106, the reservoir port 130 engages the storage port 128 and moves the storage port 128 into a contracted open position (not illustrated), allowing fluid communication between the storage compartment 104 and the reser- voir compartment 108. The size of the reservoir compartment 108 can vary. For ex- ample, the size of the reservoir compartment 108 can be between 0.05 to 0.9 of the size of the storage compartment 104, 0.1 to 0.5 of the size of the storage compartment 104, 0.2 to 0.25 of the size of the storage compartment 104, no more than 0.95, 0.9, 0.85, 0.8, 0.75, 0.7, 0.65, 0.6, 0.55, 0.5, 0.45, 0.4, 0.35, 0.3, 0.25, 0.2, 0.15, 0.1, 0.05, 0.025, 0.02, 0.015, or 0.01 of the storage compartment 104, or any combination thereof. For coolers 100 using cooling materials that have a smaller volume in the liquid phase than in the solid phase (e.g., water), it can be advantageous to utilize a reservoir compartment 108 that is smaller than the storage compartment 104 to min- imize the size of the cooler 100 because the liquid cooling material (e.g., water) will occupy less volume in the reservoir compartment 108 than the solid cooling material (ice) in the storage compartment 104.

[0034] Turning to FIG. 3, a cross-section side view of the cooler 100 without a reservoir compartment is illustrated. The first bottom surface 116 of the storage com- partment 104 can be angled such that the first end (having the drain 120) is posi- tioned lower than the opposing second end. The angle can be slight (or gradual) to effectuate the flow of fluid to the drain 120. Although the drain 120 is depicted as being positioned at an end of the bottom surface 116, it is understood that the drain 120 can be positioned anywhere in the bottom surface 116 such that the drain 120 is positioned lower than the rest of the bottom surface 116. For example, the drain 120 could be positioned in the middle of the bottom surface 116 such that the surrounding surface is angled downward toward the drain 120. The angled configuration of the first bottom surface 116 allows for fluid (e.g., melted ice) to flow into the reservoir compartment (not illustrated) installed in the cavity 106. The storage compartment 104 can also include a filter 122 that selectively prevents objects from flowing into the reservoir compartment 108. The cooler 100 can also have a drain valve 124 in- stalled in the side of the body 102 and in fluid communication with the reservoir com- partment installed in the cavity 106. The drain valve 124 enables the fluid captured in the reservoir compartment to be drained from the cooler 100 instead of removing the reservoir compartment from the cavity 106.

[0035] With continued reference to FIG. 3, the body 102 can also include a lateral storage cavity formed between the inner lateral walls 114 and a set of outer lateral walls 112. The body 102 can also have a first bottom storage cavity formed between the first bottom surface 116 and a second bottom surface 118. The body 102 can also have a second bottom storage cavity formed between a third bottom surface 119 and a fourth bottom surface 121. The lateral storage cavity, the first bottom storage cav- ity, and / or the second bottom storage cavity can be filled with insulating material 126. Similarly, the lid 110 can include a cavity that is filled with insulating material 126. The cavities can be insulated with an aerogel, hydroxyethyl cellulose, sodium polyacrylate, superabsorbent polymer, vinyl-coated silica gel, diethylene glycol, eth- ylene glycol, or any combination thereof. The cavities can also be vacuum-sealed, such that only the insulation material occupies the cavities.

[0036] Turning to FIG. 2, a side elevated view of the cooler 100 is illustrated. The lid 110 can include an engagement interface that is configured to engage with a top portion of the body 102. For example, the engagement interface can include a lip that is configured to press-fit with the interior of the body 102. Additionally, or alter- natively, the top portion of the body 102 can include one or more magnets 111 that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding ferrous strips on the bottom portion of the lid 110. Additionally, or alternatively, the bottom portion of the lid 110 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with cor- responding ferrous strips on top portion of the body 102. Additionally, or alterna- tively, the top portion of the body 102 can include one or more magnets 111 that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding magnets on the bottom portion of the lid 110.

[0037] With reference to FIG. 7, an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a cooler 200 is depicted. The cooler 200 includes a body 202, a reservoir compartment 208, and a lid 210. The body 202 also includes a cavity 206 positioned below the storage compartment 204 that is configured to receive the reservoir com- partment 208. The reservoir compartment 208 can be configured to detachably couple to the bottom of the body 204. The reservoir compartment 208 has an engagement interface 241 that includes a lip 242 that is configured to engage with the cavity 206 of the body 204. The reservoir compartment 208 also includes a reservoir port 230 that is configured to align with the drain (not illustrated) of the storage compartment 204 that places the storage compartment 204 and the reservoir compartment 208 in fluid communication. The reservoir compartment 208 can include a drain port 224 that allows the collected fluid to be drained from the reservoir compartment 208. Like the previous embodiment, the lid 210 can include an engagement interface that is configured to engage with a top portion of the body 202. For example, the engagement interface can include a lip that is configured to press-fit with the interior of the body 202. Additionally, or alternatively, the top portion of the body 202 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding ferrous strips on the bottom portion of the lid 210. Additionally, or alternatively, the bottom portion of the lid 210 can include one or more magnets that are configured to mag- netically couple with corresponding ferrous strips on top portion of the body 202 can include one or more magnets. Additionally, or alternatively, the top portion of the body 202 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding magnets on the bottom portion of the lid 210.

[0038] Turning to FIG. 8, a cross-section side view of the cooler 200 is depicted. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir compartment 208 is inserted into the cav- ity 206 of the body 202. The body 202 has a set of inner lateral walls 214 and a first bottom surface 216 that define the storage compartment 204. The cavity (not illus- trated) can include a lip that is configured to engage with the lip 242 of the reservoir compartment. The lip of the cavity can include a set of retractable protrusions 240. The retractable protrusions 240 are placed in an extended position by springs 244. The retractable protrusions 240 can be selectively moved to a contracted position by pulling on handles 246. When the reservoir compartment 208 is inserted into the cavity, the handles 246 can be released, allowing the retractable protrusions 240 to engage the engagement interface 241 (FIG. 7). The retractable protrusions 240 can be square pegs that are configured to engage a portion of the engagement interface 241. Alternatively, the retractable protrusions 240 can be rectangular pegs that are configured to engage a portion of the engagement interface 241 or the entirety of the engagement interface 241 (e.g., spanning a side of the body 202).

[0039] The drain system between the storage compartment 204 and the reservoir compartment 208 can be similar to the drain system described in the other embodi- ments. For example, the storage compartment 204 can include a drain 220 and a storage port (not illustrated) that selectively allows fluid to flow out of the storage compartment 204. Similarly, the storage port (not illustrated) can have a spring that biases the storage port to an extended closed position, thus preventing fluid flow from the storage compartment 204 when the storage port is in the closed position. When the reservoir compartment 208 is inserted into the cavity 206, the reservoir port (not illustrated) engages the storage port and moves the storage port into a contracted position, allowing the fluid to flow into the reservoir compartment 208. Like the previously described embodiments, the size of the reservoir compartment 208 can vary. For example, the size of the reservoir compartment 208 can be between 0.05 to 0.9 of the size of the storage compartment 204, 0.1 to 0.5 of the size of the storage compartment 204, 0.2 to 0.25 of the size of the storage compartment 204, no more than 0.95, 0.9, 0.85, 0.8, 0.75, 0.7, 0.65, 0.6, 0.55, 0.5, 0.45, 0.4, 0.35, 0.3, 0.25, 0.2, 0.15, 0.1, 0.05, 0.025, 0.02, 0.015, or 0.01 of the storage compartment 204, or any combination thereof.

[0040] Like the other embodiments, the first bottom surface 216 can be angled such that the first end (having the drain 220) is positioned lower than the opposing second end. The angle can be slight (or gradual) to effectuate the flow of fluid to the drain 220. Although the drain 220 is depicted as being positioned at an end of the bottom surface 216, it is understood that the drain 220 can be positioned anywhere in the bottom surface 216 such that the drain is positioned lower than the rest of the bottom surface 216. For example, the drain 220 could be positioned in the middle of the bottom surface 216 such that the surrounding surface is angled downward toward the drain 220. The storage compartment 204 can also include a filter (not illustrated) that selectively prevents objects from flowing into the reservoir compartment 208. Like the other embodiments, a drain valve (not illustrated) can be installed to enable the collected fluid to be drained from the reservoir compartment 208 without having to remove the reservoir compartment 208 from the cooler 200.

[0041] The body 202 can also include a lateral storage cavity formed between the inner lateral walls 214 and a set of outer lateral walls 212. The body 202 can also have a first bottom storage cavity formed between the first bottom surface 216 and a second bottom surface 218. The lateral storage cavity and the first bottom storage cavity can be filled with insulating material 226. Similarly, the lid 210 (FIG. 7) can include a cavity that is filled with insulating material 226. For example, the cavities can be insulated with an aerogel, hydroxyethyl cellulose, sodium polyacrylate, super- absorbent polymer, vinyl-coated silica gel, diethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, or any combination thereof.

[0042] Turning to FIG. 9, a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a cooler 300 is illustrated. The cooler 300 includes a body 302 and a lid 310. The body 302 can have a storage compartment 304 and a reservoir compartment (not illus- trated) disposed below the storage compartment 304. As discussed below, the storage compartment 304 and the reservoir compartment configured to be in fluid communi- cation, such that the reservoir compartment receives fluid from the storage compart- ment 304. The cooler 300 can also have a drain valve 324 installed in the side of the body 302 and in fluid communication with the reservoir compartment. The drain valve 324 enables the fluid captured in the reservoir compartment to be drained from the cooler 300.

[0043] With reference to FIG. 10, a cross-section side view of the cooler 300 is depicted. The body 302 has a set of inner lateral walls 314 and a first bottom surface 316 that defines the storage compartment 304. The body 302 also includes a reservoir compartment 308 positioned below the storage compartment 304 and configured to receive fluid from the storage compartment 304 via the drain 320. In the illustrative embodiment, the reservoir compartment 308 is built into the body 302 (e.g. a unitary structure). In configurations where the body 302 is a unitary structure, the reservoir compartment 308 can have a reservoir port that is defined by the opening connected to the bottom portion of the drain 320. Like the previously described embodiments, the size of the reservoir compartment 308 can vary. For example, the size of the res- ervoir compartment 308 can be between 0.05 to 0.9 of the size of the storage compart- ment 304, 0.1 to 0.5 of the size of the storage compartment 304, 0.2 to 0.25 of the size of the storage compartment 304, no more than 0.95, 0.9, 0.85, 0.8, 0.75, 0.7, 0.65, 0.6, 0.55, 0.5, 0.45, 0.4, 0.35, 0.3, 0.25, 0.2, 0.15, 0.1, 0.05, 0.025, 0.02, 0.015, or 0.01 of the storage compartment 304, or any combination thereof.

[0044] Like the previously-described embodiments, the lid 310 can include an en- gagement interface that is configured to engage with a top portion of the body 302. For example, the engagement interface can include a lip that is configured to press- fit with the interior of the body 302. Additionally, or alternatively, the top portion of the body 302 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding ferrous strips on the bottom portion of the lid 310. Addi- tionally, or alternatively, the bottom portion of the lid 310 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding ferrous strips on top portion of the body 302 can include one or more magnets. Additionally, or al- ternatively, the top portion of the body 302 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding magnets on the bottom portion of the lid 310.

[0045] The body 302 can also include a lateral storage cavity formed between the inner lateral walls 314 and a set of outer lateral walls 312. The body 302 can also include a first bottom storage cavity formed between the first bottom surface 316 and a second bottom surface 318. The body 302 can also include a second bottom storage cavity formed between a third bottom surface 319 and a fourth bottom surface 321. The lateral storage cavity, the first bottom storage cavity, and / or the second bottom storage cavity can be filled with insulating material 326. Similarly, the lid 310 can include a cavity that is filled with insulating material 326. For example, the cavities can be insulated with an aerogel, hydroxyethyl cellulose, sodium polyacrylate, super- absorbent polymer, vinyl-coated silica gel, diethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, or any combination thereof.

[0046] The drainage system of the illustrative embodiment can be similar to that of the previous embodiments. For example, the drain 320 can be positioned lower than the remaining portions of the first bottom surface 316 such that fluid will flow into the drain 320. In one embodiment, the first bottom surface 316 can be angled such that the first end (having the drain 320) is positioned lower than the opposing second end. The angle can be slight (or gradual) to effectuate the flow of fluid to the drain 320. Although the drain 320 is depicted as being positioned at an end of the bottom surface 316, the other described embodiments, it is understood that the drain 320 can be positioned anywhere in the bottom surface 316 and positioned lower than the rest of the bottom surface 316 to receive a flow of fluid. A drain valve 324 can be installed to enable the collected fluid to be drained from the reservoir compartment 308. The storage compartment 304 can also include a filter 322 that selectively pre- vents objects from flowing into the reservoir compartment 108.

[0047] As used herein, the term "about" can be understood as the disclosed values varying by 20-25%, 15-20%, 10-15%, 5-10%, 1-5%, or any combination thereof from the listed values.

[0048] Additionally, the section headings herein are provided for consistency with the suggestions under 37 C.F.R. § 1.77 or to provide organizational cues. These head- ings shall not limit or characterize the invention(s) set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. Specifically, and by way of example, although the headings refer to a "Technical Field," the claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe the so-called field. Further, a description of a technol- ogy as background information is not to be construed as an admission that a particu- lar technology is prior art to any embodiment(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the "Summary" a characterization of the embodiment(s) outlined in issued claims.

[0049] Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to "invention" in the singular should not be used to argue that there is only a single point of novelty in this disclo- sure. Multiple embodiments may be set forth according to the limitations of the mul- tiple claims issuing from this disclosure. Such claims accordingly define the embodi- ment(s) and their equivalents that are protected thereby. In all instances, the scope of such claims shall be considered on their own merits in light of this disclosure but should not be constrained by the headings set forth herein.

[0050] Moreover, the Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), re- quiring an abstract that will allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the preceding Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features may be grouped in a single embodiment to streamline the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be inter- preted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Instead, as the claims reflect, the inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0031]With reference to FIG. 1, an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a cooler 100 is depicted. The cooler 100 includes a body 102, a reservoir compart- ment 108, and a lid 110. The body 102 can have a storage compartment 104 and a cavity 106 positioned below the storage compartment 104. The cavity 106 can be con- figured to receive the reservoir compartment 108, placing the reservoir compartment 108 in fluid communication with the storage compartment 104. As explained in fur- ther detail below, the reservoir compartment 108 can receive fluid (e.g., melted ice) from the storage compartment 104 via a reservoir port 130. The transfer of fluid into the reservoir compartment 108 advantageously allows for the storage compartment 104 to maintain ice (or cooling material) for maintaining a cool temperature for the contents in the storage compartment 104. The separation of the melted and solid ice helps maintain a lower cooling temperature in the storage compartment 104. Addi- ti...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Not Applicable.BACKGROUNDTechnical Field

[0002] The technical field of the present disclosure relates to insulating devices, and more particularly to portable insulating devices for food and beverages.Description of Related Art

[0003] Ice coolers are used for a wide variety of indoor and outdoor applications that are typically used to preserve food and beverages. Conventional ice coolers are containers that have thick outer shells and inner liners that are made with insulating materials to reduce the heat transfer between the inside and outside of the cooler. A cold source, such as ice, is placed inside the cooler to absorb surrounding heat to maintain the contents of the container at a low temperature. However, conventional coolers can insulate the contents for a short period of time. Furthermore, conventional coolers eventually create a pool of water that can undesirably soak the contents of the coolers. Therefore, a need exists for an improved insulated cooler that maintains the contents of the cooler at colder temperatures longer. Additionally, a need exists for an improved cooler that prevents the contents from becoming water-soaked.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] This summary provides a discussion of aspects of certain embodiments of the invention. It is not intended to limit the claimed invention or any of the terms in the claims. The summary provides some aspects, but there are aspects and embodi- ments of the invention that are not discussed here.

[0005] In one aspect a cooler is provided. The cooler can include a body, a reservoir compartment, and a lid. The body can define a storage compartment, which can in- clude a drain. The reservoir compartment can be positioned below the storage com- partment. The reservoir compartment can include a first port that aligns with the drain and places the reservoir compartment and the storage compartment in fluid communication, and the lid can be configured to couple to a top portion of the body.

[0006] In one embodiment, the body can include a cavity positioned below the stor- age compartment and the reservoir compartment can be slidably inserted into the cavity.

[0007] In another embodiment, the body can include a cavity having a first engage- ment interface. The cavity can be positioned below the storage compartment, and the reservoir compartment can include a second engagement interface that is removably coupled with the first engagement interface. The first engagement interface can in- clude a first lip and the second engagement interface can include a second lip. The first lip can include a set of retractable protrusions configured to allow the first lip to fit within the second lip. Alternatively, the second lip can include a set of retractable protrusions configured to allow the second lip to fit within the first lip.

[0008] In another embodiment, the body can include a first set of lateral walls and a first bottom surface that define the storage compartment. The first bottom surface can include the drain.

[0009] The body can also include a lateral storage cavity formed between a second set of lateral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls. The body can also include a bottom storage cavity formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom surface. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cav- ity can be insulated. The insulation can be an aerogel, hydroxyethyl cellulose, sodium polyacrylate, superabsorbent polymer, vinyl-coated silica gel, diethylene glycol, eth- ylene glycol, or any combination thereof. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can be vacuum-sealed.

[0010] The drain can be positioned lower than the surrounding portions of the bot- tom surface. The drain can be located at a first end of the first bottom surface, and the first bottom surface can be angled such that the first end is lower than an oppos- ing second end. Alternatively, the drain can be located at a central point of the first bottom surface, and the first bottom surface can be angled such that the central point is positioned lower than the first end and the second end. The drain can include a second port that is configured to engage with the first port to selectively allow fluid to flow from the storage compartment to the reservoir compartment.

[0011] In another embodiment, a bottom portion of the lid can include a magnet configured to magnetically couple to an upper portion of the body. Alternatively, the upper portion of the body can comprise a magnet configured to magnetically couple to the bottom portion of the lid. Alternatively, the bottom portion of the lid can include a first magnet, and the upper portion of the body can include a second magnet config- ured to magnetically couple to the first magnet.

[0012] In another aspect, a cooler is provided. The cooler can include a body, a reservoir compartment, and a lid. The body can have a storage compartment and a cavity positioned below the storage compartment. The storage compartment can in- clude a drain having a first port. The reservoir compartment can be removably in- serted into the cavity. The reservoir compartment can include a second port that en- gages with the first port to selectively allow fluid communication between the storage compartment and the reservoir compartment. The lid can be configured to couple to a top portion of the body.

[0013] In one embodiment, the body can also include a first set of lateral walls and a first bottom surface that define the storage compartment. The first bottom surface can include the drain that can be positioned lower than the remaining portions of the first bottom surface. The drain can be located at a first end of the first bottom surface, and the first bottom surface can be angled such that the first end is lower than an opposing second end. Alternatively, the drain can be located at a central point of the first bottom surface, and the first bottom surface can be angled such that the central point is positioned lower than the first end and the second end.

[0014] The body can also include a lateral storage cavity and a bottom storage cav- ity. The lateral storage cavity can be formed between a second set of lateral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls. The bottom storage cavity can be formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom surface. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can be insulated. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can also be vacuum-sealed.

[0015] In another embodiment, the reservoir compartment can be slidably inserted into the cavity.

[0016] In another embodiment, the cavity can include a first engagement interface, and the reservoir compartment can include a second engagement interface removably coupled with the first engagement interface.

[0017] In yet another aspect, a cooler is provided. The cooler can include a body, a reservoir compartment, and a lid. The body can have a storage compartment and a cavity positioned below the storage compartment. The storage compartment can be defined by a first set of lateral walls and a first bottom surface. The first bottom sur- face can include a drain having a first port, and the drain can be positioned lower than the remaining portions of the first bottom surface. The reservoir compartment can include a second port that engages with the first port to selectively allow fluid communication between the storage compartment and the reservoir compartment. The lid can be configured to couple to a top portion of the body.

[0018] In one embodiment, the body can include a lateral storage cavity and a bot- tom storage cavity. The lateral storage cavity can be formed between a second set of lateral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls. The bottom storage cavity can be formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom sur- face. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can be insulated. The reservoir compartment can be slidably inserted into the cavity. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can also be vacuum-sealed.

[0019] In another embodiment, the body can include a lateral storage cavity and a bottom storage cavity. The lateral storage cavity can be formed between a second set of lateral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls. The bottom storage cav- ity can be formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom surface. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can be insulated. The lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity can also be vacuum-sealed. The cavity can include a first engagement interface having a first lip, and the reser- voir compartment can include a second engagement interface having a second lip. The first lip can include a set of retractable protrusions configured to allow the first lip to fit within the second lip. Alternatively, the second lip can include a set of re- tractable protrusions configured to allow the second lip to fit within the first lip.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The preceding aspects and many of the attendant advantages of the present technology will become more readily appreciated by reference to the following De- tailed Description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying simplified draw- ings of example embodiments. The drawings briefly described below are presented for ease of explanation and do not limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0021] FIG. 1 depicts an exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of an insulated cooler.

[0022] FIG. 2 depicts a side elevated view of the first embodiment of the insu- lated cooler.

[0023] FIG. 3 depicts a cross-section side view of the first embodiment of the insulated cooler.

[0024] FIG. 4 depicts a side view of a simple form of the storage compartment and reservoir compartment of the first embodiment of the insulated cooler.

[0025] FIG. 5 depicts an end view of the first embodiment of the insulated cooler.

[0026] FIG. 6 depicts a top view of the first embodiment of the insulated cooler.

[0027] FIG. 7 depicts an exploded perspective view of a second embodiment of an insulated cooler.

[0028] FIG. 8 depicts a cross-section side view of the second embodiment of the insulated cooler.

[0029] FIG. 9 depicts an exploded perspective view of a third embodiment of an insulated cooler.

[0030] FIG. 10 depicts a cross-section side view of the third embodiment of the insulated cooler.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] With reference to FIG. 1, an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a cooler 100 is depicted. The cooler 100 includes a body 102, a reservoir compart- ment 108, and a lid 110. The body 102 can have a storage compartment 104 and a cavity 106 positioned below the storage compartment 104. The cavity 106 can be con- figured to receive the reservoir compartment 108, placing the reservoir compartment 108 in fluid communication with the storage compartment 104. As explained in fur- ther detail below, the reservoir compartment 108 can receive fluid (e.g., melted ice) from the storage compartment 104 via a reservoir port 130. The transfer of fluid into the reservoir compartment 108 advantageously allows for the storage compartment 104 to maintain ice (or cooling material) for maintaining a cool temperature for the contents in the storage compartment 104. The separation of the melted and solid ice helps maintain a lower cooling temperature in the storage compartment 104. Addi- tionally, the separation of the melted and solid ice helps prevent the contents of the storage compartment 104 from becoming saturated with water. For example, non- liquid-sealed objects (e.g., plastic baggies, unsealed food, etc.) can become soggy in conventional coolers when ice melts. The disclosed coolers, in contrast, eliminate this deficiency by draining the water before it can compromise the contents in the storage compartment 108. A handle 132 on the reservoir compartment 108 can help install or remove the reservoir compartment 108 from the cavity 106, which is also depicted in an end view of the cooler 100 of FIG. 5.

[0032] Turning to FIG. 6, a top view of the cooler 100 is depicted. In the illustra- tive embodiment, the body 102 includes a set of inner lateral walls 114 and a first bottom surface 116 that define the storage compartment 104. The first bottom surface 116 includes a drain 120 that is configured to align with the reservoir port (not illus- trated) to transfer fluid to the reservoir compartment (not illustrated). The body 102 can also include a set of outer lateral walls 112 to increase the thermal insulation between the storage compartment 104 and the environment. In one embodiment, a lateral cavity can be formed between the inner lateral walls 114 and the outer lateral walls 112 to be filled with insulating materials. In an alternative embodiment, the inner lateral walls 114 and the outer lateral walls 112 are formed from a unitary structure (i.e., not forming a cavity). The body 102, including the inner lateral walls 114 and outer lateral walls 112, can be made of polyurethane foam, expanded poly- styrene (EPS), expanded polypropylene (EPP), or any combination thereof. Addition- ally, the inner lateral walls 114 and outer lateral walls 112 can be lined with high- density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, or any combination thereof. In embodiments where a lateral cavity is formed by the inner lateral walls 114 and the outer lateral walls 112, the inner lateral walls 114 can have a thickness of about 0.25 inches to about 1.5 inches, and the outer lateral walls 112 can have a thickness of about 0.75 inches to about 2.25 inches.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 4, a side view of a simple form of the storage compart- ment 104 and reservoir compartment 108 is depicted. The drain 120 can include a storage port 128, which can be configured to selectively allow fluid to flow between the storage compartment 104 and the reservoir compartment 108. The reservoir com- partment 108 can have a reservoir port 130 that is configured to engage with the storage port 128 to place the storage compartment 104 and the reservoir compart- ment 108 in selective fluid communication. In the illustrative embodiment, the stor- age port 128 can include a spring (not illustrated) that biases the storage port 128 to an extended closed position, thus preventing fluid flow from the storage compartment 104 when the storage port is in the closed position. When the reservoir compartment 108 is inserted into the cavity 106, the reservoir port 130 engages the storage port 128 and moves the storage port 128 into a contracted open position (not illustrated), allowing fluid communication between the storage compartment 104 and the reser- voir compartment 108. The size of the reservoir compartment 108 can vary. For ex- ample, the size of the reservoir compartment 108 can be between 0.05 to 0.9 of the size of the storage compartment 104, 0.1 to 0.5 of the size of the storage compartment 104, 0.2 to 0.25 of the size of the storage compartment 104, no more than 0.95, 0.9, 0.85, 0.8, 0.75, 0.7, 0.65, 0.6, 0.55, 0.5, 0.45, 0.4, 0.35, 0.3, 0.25, 0.2, 0.15, 0.1, 0.05, 0.025, 0.02, 0.015, or 0.01 of the storage compartment 104, or any combination thereof. For coolers 100 using cooling materials that have a smaller volume in the liquid phase than in the solid phase (e.g., water), it can be advantageous to utilize a reservoir compartment 108 that is smaller than the storage compartment 104 to min- imize the size of the cooler 100 because the liquid cooling material (e.g., water) will occupy less volume in the reservoir compartment 108 than the solid cooling material (ice) in the storage compartment 104.

[0034] Turning to FIG. 3, a cross-section side view of the cooler 100 without a reservoir compartment is illustrated. The first bottom surface 116 of the storage com- partment 104 can be angled such that the first end (having the drain 120) is posi- tioned lower than the opposing second end. The angle can be slight (or gradual) to effectuate the flow of fluid to the drain 120. Although the drain 120 is depicted as being positioned at an end of the bottom surface 116, it is understood that the drain 120 can be positioned anywhere in the bottom surface 116 such that the drain 120 is positioned lower than the rest of the bottom surface 116. For example, the drain 120 could be positioned in the middle of the bottom surface 116 such that the surrounding surface is angled downward toward the drain 120. The angled configuration of the first bottom surface 116 allows for fluid (e.g., melted ice) to flow into the reservoir compartment (not illustrated) installed in the cavity 106. The storage compartment 104 can also include a filter 122 that selectively prevents objects from flowing into the reservoir compartment 108. The cooler 100 can also have a drain valve 124 in- stalled in the side of the body 102 and in fluid communication with the reservoir com- partment installed in the cavity 106. The drain valve 124 enables the fluid captured in the reservoir compartment to be drained from the cooler 100 instead of removing the reservoir compartment from the cavity 106.

[0035] With continued reference to FIG. 3, the body 102 can also include a lateral storage cavity formed between the inner lateral walls 114 and a set of outer lateral walls 112. The body 102 can also have a first bottom storage cavity formed between the first bottom surface 116 and a second bottom surface 118. The body 102 can also have a second bottom storage cavity formed between a third bottom surface 119 and a fourth bottom surface 121. The lateral storage cavity, the first bottom storage cav- ity, and / or the second bottom storage cavity can be filled with insulating material 126. Similarly, the lid 110 can include a cavity that is filled with insulating material 126. The cavities can be insulated with an aerogel, hydroxyethyl cellulose, sodium polyacrylate, superabsorbent polymer, vinyl-coated silica gel, diethylene glycol, eth- ylene glycol, or any combination thereof. The cavities can also be vacuum-sealed, such that only the insulation material occupies the cavities.

[0036] Turning to FIG. 2, a side elevated view of the cooler 100 is illustrated. The lid 110 can include an engagement interface that is configured to engage with a top portion of the body 102. For example, the engagement interface can include a lip that is configured to press-fit with the interior of the body 102. Additionally, or alter- natively, the top portion of the body 102 can include one or more magnets 111 that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding ferrous strips on the bottom portion of the lid 110. Additionally, or alternatively, the bottom portion of the lid 110 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with cor- responding ferrous strips on top portion of the body 102. Additionally, or alterna- tively, the top portion of the body 102 can include one or more magnets 111 that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding magnets on the bottom portion of the lid 110.

[0037] With reference to FIG. 7, an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a cooler 200 is depicted. The cooler 200 includes a body 202, a reservoir compartment 208, and a lid 210. The body 202 also includes a cavity 206 positioned below the storage compartment 204 that is configured to receive the reservoir com- partment 208. The reservoir compartment 208 can be configured to detachably couple to the bottom of the body 204. The reservoir compartment 208 has an engagement interface 241 that includes a lip 242 that is configured to engage with the cavity 206 of the body 204. The reservoir compartment 208 also includes a reservoir port 230 that is configured to align with the drain (not illustrated) of the storage compartment 204 that places the storage compartment 204 and the reservoir compartment 208 in fluid communication. The reservoir compartment 208 can include a drain port 224 that allows the collected fluid to be drained from the reservoir compartment 208. Like the previous embodiment, the lid 210 can include an engagement interface that is configured to engage with a top portion of the body 202. For example, the engagement interface can include a lip that is configured to press-fit with the interior of the body 202. Additionally, or alternatively, the top portion of the body 202 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding ferrous strips on the bottom portion of the lid 210. Additionally, or alternatively, the bottom portion of the lid 210 can include one or more magnets that are configured to mag- netically couple with corresponding ferrous strips on top portion of the body 202 can include one or more magnets. Additionally, or alternatively, the top portion of the body 202 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding magnets on the bottom portion of the lid 210.

[0038] Turning to FIG. 8, a cross-section side view of the cooler 200 is depicted. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir compartment 208 is inserted into the cav- ity 206 of the body 202. The body 202 has a set of inner lateral walls 214 and a first bottom surface 216 that define the storage compartment 204. The cavity (not illus- trated) can include a lip that is configured to engage with the lip 242 of the reservoir compartment. The lip of the cavity can include a set of retractable protrusions 240. The retractable protrusions 240 are placed in an extended position by springs 244. The retractable protrusions 240 can be selectively moved to a contracted position by pulling on handles 246. When the reservoir compartment 208 is inserted into the cavity, the handles 246 can be released, allowing the retractable protrusions 240 to engage the engagement interface 241 (FIG. 7). The retractable protrusions 240 can be square pegs that are configured to engage a portion of the engagement interface 241. Alternatively, the retractable protrusions 240 can be rectangular pegs that are configured to engage a portion of the engagement interface 241 or the entirety of the engagement interface 241 (e.g., spanning a side of the body 202).

[0039] The drain system between the storage compartment 204 and the reservoir compartment 208 can be similar to the drain system described in the other embodi- ments. For example, the storage compartment 204 can include a drain 220 and a storage port (not illustrated) that selectively allows fluid to flow out of the storage compartment 204. Similarly, the storage port (not illustrated) can have a spring that biases the storage port to an extended closed position, thus preventing fluid flow from the storage compartment 204 when the storage port is in the closed position. When the reservoir compartment 208 is inserted into the cavity 206, the reservoir port (not illustrated) engages the storage port and moves the storage port into a contracted position, allowing the fluid to flow into the reservoir compartment 208. Like the previously described embodiments, the size of the reservoir compartment 208 can vary. For example, the size of the reservoir compartment 208 can be between 0.05 to 0.9 of the size of the storage compartment 204, 0.1 to 0.5 of the size of the storage compartment 204, 0.2 to 0.25 of the size of the storage compartment 204, no more than 0.95, 0.9, 0.85, 0.8, 0.75, 0.7, 0.65, 0.6, 0.55, 0.5, 0.45, 0.4, 0.35, 0.3, 0.25, 0.2, 0.15, 0.1, 0.05, 0.025, 0.02, 0.015, or 0.01 of the storage compartment 204, or any combination thereof.

[0040] Like the other embodiments, the first bottom surface 216 can be angled such that the first end (having the drain 220) is positioned lower than the opposing second end. The angle can be slight (or gradual) to effectuate the flow of fluid to the drain 220. Although the drain 220 is depicted as being positioned at an end of the bottom surface 216, it is understood that the drain 220 can be positioned anywhere in the bottom surface 216 such that the drain is positioned lower than the rest of the bottom surface 216. For example, the drain 220 could be positioned in the middle of the bottom surface 216 such that the surrounding surface is angled downward toward the drain 220. The storage compartment 204 can also include a filter (not illustrated) that selectively prevents objects from flowing into the reservoir compartment 208. Like the other embodiments, a drain valve (not illustrated) can be installed to enable the collected fluid to be drained from the reservoir compartment 208 without having to remove the reservoir compartment 208 from the cooler 200.

[0041] The body 202 can also include a lateral storage cavity formed between the inner lateral walls 214 and a set of outer lateral walls 212. The body 202 can also have a first bottom storage cavity formed between the first bottom surface 216 and a second bottom surface 218. The lateral storage cavity and the first bottom storage cavity can be filled with insulating material 226. Similarly, the lid 210 (FIG. 7) can include a cavity that is filled with insulating material 226. For example, the cavities can be insulated with an aerogel, hydroxyethyl cellulose, sodium polyacrylate, super- absorbent polymer, vinyl-coated silica gel, diethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, or any combination thereof.

[0042] Turning to FIG. 9, a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a cooler 300 is illustrated. The cooler 300 includes a body 302 and a lid 310. The body 302 can have a storage compartment 304 and a reservoir compartment (not illus- trated) disposed below the storage compartment 304. As discussed below, the storage compartment 304 and the reservoir compartment configured to be in fluid communi- cation, such that the reservoir compartment receives fluid from the storage compart- ment 304. The cooler 300 can also have a drain valve 324 installed in the side of the body 302 and in fluid communication with the reservoir compartment. The drain valve 324 enables the fluid captured in the reservoir compartment to be drained from the cooler 300.

[0043] With reference to FIG. 10, a cross-section side view of the cooler 300 is depicted. The body 302 has a set of inner lateral walls 314 and a first bottom surface 316 that defines the storage compartment 304. The body 302 also includes a reservoir compartment 308 positioned below the storage compartment 304 and configured to receive fluid from the storage compartment 304 via the drain 320. In the illustrative embodiment, the reservoir compartment 308 is built into the body 302 (e.g. a unitary structure). In configurations where the body 302 is a unitary structure, the reservoir compartment 308 can have a reservoir port that is defined by the opening connected to the bottom portion of the drain 320. Like the previously described embodiments, the size of the reservoir compartment 308 can vary. For example, the size of the res- ervoir compartment 308 can be between 0.05 to 0.9 of the size of the storage compart- ment 304, 0.1 to 0.5 of the size of the storage compartment 304, 0.2 to 0.25 of the size of the storage compartment 304, no more than 0.95, 0.9, 0.85, 0.8, 0.75, 0.7, 0.65, 0.6, 0.55, 0.5, 0.45, 0.4, 0.35, 0.3, 0.25, 0.2, 0.15, 0.1, 0.05, 0.025, 0.02, 0.015, or 0.01 of the storage compartment 304, or any combination thereof.

[0044] Like the previously-described embodiments, the lid 310 can include an en- gagement interface that is configured to engage with a top portion of the body 302. For example, the engagement interface can include a lip that is configured to press- fit with the interior of the body 302. Additionally, or alternatively, the top portion of the body 302 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding ferrous strips on the bottom portion of the lid 310. Addi- tionally, or alternatively, the bottom portion of the lid 310 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding ferrous strips on top portion of the body 302 can include one or more magnets. Additionally, or al- ternatively, the top portion of the body 302 can include one or more magnets that are configured to magnetically couple with corresponding magnets on the bottom portion of the lid 310.

[0045] The body 302 can also include a lateral storage cavity formed between the inner lateral walls 314 and a set of outer lateral walls 312. The body 302 can also include a first bottom storage cavity formed between the first bottom surface 316 and a second bottom surface 318. The body 302 can also include a second bottom storage cavity formed between a third bottom surface 319 and a fourth bottom surface 321. The lateral storage cavity, the first bottom storage cavity, and / or the second bottom storage cavity can be filled with insulating material 326. Similarly, the lid 310 can include a cavity that is filled with insulating material 326. For example, the cavities can be insulated with an aerogel, hydroxyethyl cellulose, sodium polyacrylate, super- absorbent polymer, vinyl-coated silica gel, diethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, or any combination thereof.

[0046] The drainage system of the illustrative embodiment can be similar to that of the previous embodiments. For example, the drain 320 can be positioned lower than the remaining portions of the first bottom surface 316 such that fluid will flow into the drain 320. In one embodiment, the first bottom surface 316 can be angled such that the first end (having the drain 320) is positioned lower than the opposing second end. The angle can be slight (or gradual) to effectuate the flow of fluid to the drain 320. Although the drain 320 is depicted as being positioned at an end of the bottom surface 316, the other described embodiments, it is understood that the drain 320 can be positioned anywhere in the bottom surface 316 and positioned lower than the rest of the bottom surface 316 to receive a flow of fluid. A drain valve 324 can be installed to enable the collected fluid to be drained from the reservoir compartment 308. The storage compartment 304 can also include a filter 322 that selectively pre- vents objects from flowing into the reservoir compartment 108.

[0047] As used herein, the term "about" can be understood as the disclosed values varying by 20-25%, 15-20%, 10-15%, 5-10%, 1-5%, or any combination thereof from the listed values.

[0048] Additionally, the section headings herein are provided for consistency with the suggestions under 37 C.F.R. § 1.77 or to provide organizational cues. These head- ings shall not limit or characterize the invention(s) set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. Specifically, and by way of example, although the headings refer to a "Technical Field," the claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe the so-called field. Further, a description of a technol- ogy as background information is not to be construed as an admission that a particu- lar technology is prior art to any embodiment(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the "Summary" a characterization of the embodiment(s) outlined in issued claims.

[0049] Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to "invention" in the singular should not be used to argue that there is only a single point of novelty in this disclo- sure. Multiple embodiments may be set forth according to the limitations of the mul- tiple claims issuing from this disclosure. Such claims accordingly define the embodi- ment(s) and their equivalents that are protected thereby. In all instances, the scope of such claims shall be considered on their own merits in light of this disclosure but should not be constrained by the headings set forth herein.

[0050] Moreover, the Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), re- quiring an abstract that will allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the preceding Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features may be grouped in a single embodiment to streamline the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be inter- preted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Instead, as the claims reflect, the inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0031]With reference to FIG. 1, an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a cooler 100 is depicted. The cooler 100 includes a body 102, a reservoir compart- ment 108, and a lid 110. The body 102 can have a storage compartment 104 and a cavity 106 positioned below the storage compartment 104. The cavity 106 can be con- figured to receive the reservoir compartment 108, placing the reservoir compartment 108 in fluid communication with the storage compartment 104. As explained in fur- ther detail below, the reservoir compartment 108 can receive fluid (e.g., melted ice) from the storage compartment 104 via a reservoir port 130. The transfer of fluid into the reservoir compartment 108 advantageously allows for the storage compartment 104 to maintain ice (or cooling material) for maintaining a cool temperature for the contents in the storage compartment 104. The separation of the melted and solid ice helps maintain a lower cooling temperature in the storage compartment 104. Addi- ti...

Claims

1. A cooler comprising:a body defining a storage compartment, wherein the storage compartment comprises a drain;a reservoir compartment positioned below a bottom portion of the storage com- partment, wherein the reservoir compartment comprises a first port that aligns with the drain and places the reservoir compartment and the storage compartment in fluid communication; anda lid configured to couple to a top portion of the body.

2. The cooler of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a cavity positioned below the storage compartment, and wherein the reservoir compartment is slidably inserted into the cavity.

3. The cooler of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a cavity having a first en- gagement interface, the cavity being positioned below the storage compartment, and wherein the reservoir compartment comprises a second engagement interface remov- ably coupled with the first engagement interface.

4. The cooler of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a first set of lateral walls and a first bottom surface that define the storage compartment, and wherein the first bottom surface comprises the drain.

5. The cooler of claim 4, wherein the body comprises a lateral storage cavity formed between a second set of lateral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls, wherein the body further comprises a bottom storage cavity formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom surface, wherein the lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity are insulated.

6. The cooler of claim 5, wherein the lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity are insulated with an aerogel, hydroxyethyl cellulose, sodium polyacrylate, su- perabsorbent polymer, vinyl-coated silica gel, diethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, or any combination thereof.

7. The cooler of claim 6, wherein the lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity are vacuum-sealed.

8. The cooler of claim 5, wherein the drain is positioned lower than the surround- ing portions of the first bottom surface.

9. The cooler of claim 1, wherein the drain comprises a second port that is config- ured to engage with the first port to selectively allow fluid to flow from the storage compartment to the reservoir compartment.

10. The cooler of claim 3, wherein the first engagement interface comprises a first lip and the second engagement interface comprises a second lip.

11. The cooler of claim 10, wherein the first lip comprises a set of retractable pro- trusions configured to allow the first lip to fit within the second lip.

12. The cooler of claim 10, wherein the second lip comprises a set of retractable protrusions configured to allow the second lip to fit within the first lip.

13. A cooler comprising:a body comprising a storage compartment and a cavity positioned below the storage compartment, wherein the storage compartment comprises a drain having a first port;a reservoir compartment removably inserted into the cavity, wherein the res- ervoir compartment comprises a second port that engages with the first port to selectively allow fluid communication between the storage compartment and the reservoir compartment; anda lid configured to couple to a top portion of the body.

14. The cooler of claim 13, wherein:the body further comprises a first set of lateral walls and a first bottom surface that define the storage compartment; andthe first bottom surface comprises the drain, and the drain is positioned lower than the surrounding portions of the bottom surface.

15. The cooler of claim 13, wherein the reservoir compartment is slidably inserted into the cavity.

16. The cooler of claim 13, wherein the cavity comprises a first engagement inter- face and the reservoir compartment comprises a second engagement interface, and wherein the second engagement interface is removably coupled to the first engage- ment interface.

17. The cooler of claim 14, wherein:the body further comprises a lateral storage cavity formed between a second set of lateral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls;the body further comprises a bottom storage cavity formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom surface;the lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity are insulated; and the lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity are vacuum-sealed.

18. A cooler comprising:a body comprising a storage compartment and a cavity positioned below the storage compartment, wherein:the storage compartment is defined by a first set of lateral walls and a first bottom surface,the first bottom surface comprises a drain having a first port, andthe drain is positioned lower than the surrounding portions of the first bot- tom surface;a reservoir compartment removably inserted into the cavity, wherein the res- ervoir compartment comprises a second port that engages with the first port to selectively allow fluid communication between the storage compartment and the reservoir compartment; anda lid configured to couple to a top portion of the body.

19. The cooler of claim 18, wherein:the body comprises a lateral storage cavity formed between a second set of lat- eral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls;the body further comprises a bottom storage cavity formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom surface, the lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity are insulated; andthe reservoir compartment is slidably inserted into the cavity.

20. The cooler of claim 18, wherein:the body comprises a lateral storage cavity formed between a second set of lat- eral walls disposed around the first set of lateral walls;the body further comprises a bottom storage cavity formed between a second bottom surface disposed below the first bottom surface, the lateral storage cavity and the bottom storage cavity are insulated;the cavity comprises a first engagement interface having a first lip, the first lip comprising a set of retractable protrusions; andthe reservoir compartment comprises a second engagement interface having a second lip, the second engagement surface being removably coupled with the first engagement interface.

Images