Ice chest air conditioners with lid-based electronics

Abstract

A portable ice chest air-conditioning system comprises a cooler body having a cavity configured to hold cold fluid, a cooler lid configured to provide selective access to the cooler body, and electronics disposed in or on the cooler lid and configured to condition air using the cold fluid, the electronics including a pump in or on the cooler lid and configured to move cold fluid from the cavity of the cooler body to the cooler lid to condition the air.

Description

FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure is directed to ice chests and, more particularly, to ice chests including electrical components.BACKGROUND

[0002] Refrigeration and cooling technologies have evolved over time, addressing various needs in food preservation, beverage cooling, and portable temperature management. There has been an increasing demand for coolers that incorporate electrical components to enhance functionality and convenience. For example, modern coolers may include various electrical components including fans, control panels, power outlets, and wireless communication technology. The integration of electrical components can add complexity and cost to the design of the cooler. Furthermore, it may be desirable for a manufacturer to offer multiple models to customers, with each model having different features to appeal to a broader cross-section of potential customers. Manufacturing and storing inventory for a large number of different models can be complex and can consume large amounts of space.

[0003] In particular, the placement of electrical components impacts functionality, manufacturing costs, and aesthetic appeal. Therefore, there is a need for ice chest air conditioners with lid-based electronics. This disclosure addresses this need, among other needs.SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure is directed to an ice chest air-conditioning system with electrical components associated with the lid. By associating electrical components with the lid instead of with the ice chest body, the manufacturer can offer different models with different capabilities that are compatible with the same ice chest body. Since only one ice chest body is needed for different models, the number of separate parts needed for a product line can be reduced, which may result in easier inventory management due to a lower number of different components for a product line. Further, it may create efficiencies in manufacturing since the manufacturer will need fewer number of different components and may make product runs of larger numbers of the same product. This in turn may result in cost-savings for the manufacturer. In some implementations described herein, associating all the electronic components in the ice chest air conditioning system with the lid enables a manufacturer to offer a higher-end model with more features, while using the same ice chest body as a lower-end model with less features. That is, since the electronic components are limited to a single portion of the ice chest, the body can be utilized with any of the lids of the different models.

[0005] Consistent with some examples, a portable ice chest air-conditioning system may comprise a cooler body having a cavity configured to hold cold fluid, a cooler lid configured to provide selective access to the cooler body, and electronics disposed in or on the cooler lid and configured to condition air using the cold fluid, the electronics including a pump in or on the cooler lid and configured to move cold fluid from the cavity of the cooler body to the cooler lid to condition the air.

[0006] In some examples, the cooler lid may be detachable from the cooler body, and the pump may be secured to the cooler lid such that the pump remains with the cooler lid when the cooler lid is detached from the cooler body. The electronics may further comprise a heat exchanger configured to receive the cold fluid from the cooler body, and a fan configured to move air across the heat exchanger.

[0007] In some examples, the cooler lid may include a conduit coupled to the pump and extending into the cooler body, the conduit configured to transport cold fluid between the cooler body and the cooler lid. The cooler body may include a reservoir having a bottom surface, and an opening defined by the conduit may be disposed near the bottom surface of the reservoir. The conduit may be disposed along a wall of the cooler body. The cooler body may include a holding mechanism configured to releasably secure the conduit within the cooler body. A length of the conduit from a bottom surface of the cooler lid to a distal tip of the conduit may be larger than a distance between the cooler lid and the holding mechanism both when the cooler lid is open and when the cooler lid is closed. The holding mechanism may be formed as part of the cooler body. The holding mechanism may be releasably securable to the cooler body.

[0008] Consistent with some examples, a modular ice chest air-conditioning system may comprise an ice chest body having a cavity configured to hold cold fluid, the ice chest body being devoid of electronic components that operate the air-conditioning system, a first lid having a first electronic arrangement selectively co-operable with the ice chest body to form a first air-conditioning system, and a second lid having a second electronic arrangement selectively co-operable with the ice chest body to form a second air-conditioning system.

[0009] In some examples, the first electronic arrangement of the first lid may include a heat exchanger and a first pump, the first pump configured to move cold fluid from the cavity of the ice chest body through a conduit to the heat exchanger. The first electronic arrangement of the first lid may include a second pump configured to move cold fluid from the cavity of the ice chest body through a conduit to a spray nozzle of the first air-conditioning system. The second lid may be devoid of any pumps configured to move cold fluid from the ice chest body to the second lid. The first lid may be attached to the ice chest body, and the conduit may be positioned in the cavity in a manner to transport cold fluid from the ice chest body to the first lid.

[0010] Consistent with some examples, an air conditioning system of a cooler may comprise a heat exchanger carried by a lid of the cooler and configured to cool air moving across the heat exchanger, a first pump carried by the lid of the cooler and configured to pump cold fluid from a body of the cooler to the heat exchanger, and a fan carried by the lid of the cooler and configured to move air across the heat exchanger to cool the air.

[0011] In some examples, the air conditioning system may further comprises a conduit attached to the lid and disposable within the body of the cooler when the lid is attached to the body. The conduit may include an intake conduit and a discharge conduit, both the intake conduit and the discharge conduit being releasably securable to a wall of the body of the cooler. The air conditioning system may further comprise a control panel disposed in the lid of the cooler and operable to selectively actuate the first pump and to selectively actuate the fan. The air conditioning system may further comprise a spray nozzle, and a second pump disposed in the lid of the cooler and operable to pump fluid through the spray nozzle and out of the air conditioning system.

[0012] Consistent with some examples, a portable air conditioning system usable as an ice chest may comprise an ice chest body having a cavity configured to hold cold fluid, a lid configured to provide selective access to the cavity of the ice chest body, a heat exchanger carried by the lid and configured to cool air moving across the heat exchanger, a first pump carried by the lid and configured to pump cold fluid from the ice chest body to the heat exchanger, and a fan carried by the lid configured to move air across the heat exchanger to cool the air, the ice chest body being devoid of electronic components.

[0013] In some examples the portable air conditioning system may further comprise a power source connector carried by the lid. The portable air conditioning system may further comprise a first lid with a first electronic arrangement and a second lid with a second different electronic arrangement, each of the first lid and the second lid being configured to couple with the ice chest body.

[0014] Consistent with some examples, a portable air conditioning system usable as an ice chest may comprise an ice chest body having a cavity configured to hold cold fluid, a lid configured to provide selective access to the cavity of the ice chest body, a heat exchanger configured to cool air moving across the heat exchanger, a first pump configured to pump cold fluid from the ice chest body to the heat exchanger, and a fan configured to move air across the heat exchanger to cool the air. The heat exchanger, the first pump, and the fan may all be carried on one of the lid or the ice chest body, and the other of the lid or the ice chest body may be devoid of electronic components.

[0015] In some example, the portable air conditioning system may comprise a power source connector carried by the one of the lid or the ice chest body.

[0016] Other examples include corresponding methods, computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions described herein.

[0017] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory in nature and are intended to provide an understanding of the present disclosure without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In that regard, additional aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent to one skilled in the art from the following detailed description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an ice chest air conditioner with lid-based electronics, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a chest of an ice chest air conditioner with lid-based electronics, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a lid of an ice chest air conditioner with lid-based electronics, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an ice chest air conditioner with lid-based electronics, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a perspective section view of a chest of an ice chest air conditioner with lid-based conduits secured thereto, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

[0023] Examples of the present disclosure and their advantages are best understood by referring to the detailed description that follows. It should be appreciated that like reference numerals are used to identify like elements illustrated in one or more of the figures, wherein showings therein are for purposes of illustrating examples of the present disclosure and not for purposes of limiting the same.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Accordingly, the present disclosure contemplates ice chest air conditioners with lid-based electronics.

[0025] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the implementations illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is intended. Any alterations and further modifications to the described devices, instruments, methods, and any further application of the principles of the present disclosure are fully contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates. In addition, this disclosure describes some elements or features in detail with respect to one or more implementations or figures, when those same elements or features appear in subsequent figures, without such a high level of detail.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an ice chest air conditioner 100 with lid-based electronics, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. The ice chest air conditioner 100 includes a chest 101 having a body 102 and a lid 104. The lid 104 may be hingedly connected to the body 102 to provide selective access to a reservoir 103 (shown in FIG. 2). The lid 104 may be connected in other ways, for example, the lid 104 may slide onto the body 102 or have a clamshell opening, among other configurations. The body 102 and the lid 104 may comprise molded plastic or other suitable materials. The chest 101 can be configured to provide functions beneficial for coolers, ice chests, and other outdoor equipment. In one example, molded drink holders 106 may be defined in the lid 104. In some examples, a drain 108 is accessible from outside the body 102 and configured to drain liquid from the chest 101. The lid 104 may latch or lock to the body 102 to keep the contents within the chest 101 secured and cool.

[0027] As disclosed herein, all or some of the electronics of the ice chest air conditioner 100 may be disposed in, disposed on, secured to, carried by, or otherwise associated with the lid 104. It may be advantageous, for many reasons, to relate all or some of the electronics with the lid 104. For example, some product offerings may include a lineup of different models of ice chest air conditioners, with each having different electronic capabilities and features. By including all the electronic components in the lid, the same chest body 102 can be used across all models, with the only differences between the models being the contained to the various lids. Thus, the manufacturer can use the same body across multiple models reducing the number of different components required for assembly, and potentially resulting in space and cost-savings. More specifically, the manufacturer may offer a higher end air-conditioning model having, for example, a blower and a mist-nozzle in a first lid, and the manufacturer may offer a lower end air conditioning model having, for example, only a blower in an alternative lid. An alternative third model may use a lid with additional electronic functionality, such as outlets, audio speakers, or charge ports. Since each model has a lid with electronic components associated with the lid, each model can use the same ice chest body. Thus, the body 102 may be compatible / modular with a variety of styles / versions of the lid 104, where each version includes a different set of electronics, depending on the desired functionalities for that version of the ice chest air conditioner 100. The details and advantages presented by the lid-based electronics of the ice chest air conditioner 100 disclosed herein will be discussed further below with respect to FIGS. 2-5.

[0028] The ice chest air conditioner 100 may be movable by way of wheels 110 and / or a tow handle 112. The wheels 110 and the tow handle 112 may be arranged differently than shown. There may be more or fewer of the wheels 110 and tow handles 112 than shown. In some examples, the tow handle 112 stows against the body 102 when not in use. The tow handle 112 may hinge outwardly to allow for lifting of a portion of the body 102. Once a portion of the body 102 is lifted, pulling on the tow handle 112 will allow for movement of the wheels 110. Additional handles may be included on the chest 101. In some examples, a lid handle 114 may be coupled to the lid to allow a user to open and close the lid 104. In some examples, lift handles 116 may be coupled to the body and allow a user to carry and transport the chest 101.

[0029] The chest 101 can be configured to hold liquid, air, and other objects such as ice, beverages, food, ice packs, etc. In some examples, the body 102 of the chest 101 has a reservoir 103 for holding the liquid, air, and / or other objects. The reservoir or cavity 103 may be defined by a liner separate from the body 102. In some examples, the body 102 itself defines the reservoir 103. The reservoir 103, like the body 102 and the lid 104, may be molded plastic or another suitable material. In some examples, the body 102 is insulated with insulation (not shown) between all or portions of the body 102 and the reservoir 103. The insulation may be foam or other suitable materials. In some examples, the ice chest air conditioner 100 may also function as a beverage cooler or ice chest, which may call for additional structure or organization of components within the reservoir 103.

[0030] In some examples, warm air is drawn into the reservoir 103 of the ice chest air conditioner 100 through at least one inlet 118. The at least one inlet 118 can be located at the conjunction of the lid 104 and the body 102. Such a location may allow the at least one inlet 118 to be hidden from plain view and allows air to enter the chest 101 even when a substantial amount of ice, liquid, food, drinks, or other objects are located in the reservoir 103. In some examples, the inlet 118 is placed on the front of the chest while another inlet 118 is placed on a side of the chest opposite the fan. Placing inlets away from and opposite a fan 304 (shown in FIG. 3) ensures that air flows across the cold objects within the reservoir 103. As air moves across these cold objects, the temperature of the warm air begins to decrease, before continuing throughout the rest of the system.

[0031] In some examples, the at least one inlet 118 may be configured to allow air to enter the chest 101 when suction force is applied by the system (e.g., when a fan is pulling air from within the chest 101) but prevents air from exiting the chest 101 when the suction force subsides (e.g., when the fan is off). In this sense, the at least one inlet 118 may function as a one-way valve. The at least one inlet 118 of this nature ensures that chilly air within the chest 101 does not escape, increasing the time it takes for ice within the chest 101 to melt.

[0032] The chest 101 may have an outlet port 120, a flexible tube 122, and a vent 124, which facilitate the movement of cooled air and / or liquid out of the chest 101. These features will be discussed in more detail below with respect to FIG. 3.

[0033] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the chest 101 of the ice chest air conditioner 100 with lid-based electronics, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. As shown, two hinges 214 can straddle the inside of the reservoir 103 and the outside of the body 102 and hingedly connect to the lid 104. More or less than two of the hinges 214 can be used to attach the lid 104 to the chest 101. Other forms of attachment are also possible, including the forms described above with respect to FIG. 1.

[0034] In some examples, the body 102 may be molded to accept an axle 200 attached to the wheels 110. The wheels 110 may be attached to the axle 200 by bushings 202. The wheels 110 may be held in place by caps 204. In some examples, the wheels 110 are detachable from the body 102, rather than integrated as shown. In some examples, the drain 108 has a drain body 206 that traverses from inside the reservoir 103 to outside the body 102. The drain body 206 may be retained in place by a gasket 208 and a nut 210. A drain plug 212 may be provided for opening and closing the drain 108.

[0035] Liquid, air, and other objects can be held by the reservoir 103. The reservoir 103 may hold ice, drinks, liquid (e.g., water), food, and other objects, depending on the circumstances. When the reservoir 103 is filled with ice, the insulative properties of the portable multi-function air conditioner can maintain the ice in a solid state for an extended period of time. The ice or other chilled objects within the reservoir 103 will cool the warm air drawn into the chest 101 as the air passes across it. The air can further be cooled by systems and methods described herein. It is understood that the ice chest air conditioner 100 can alternatively be filled with hot liquid or objects and be used during times of cold weather to discharge warm air and / or warm liquid.

[0036] The body 102, as shown in FIG. 2, may be devoid of electrical components and / or components associated with the electronics of the ice chest air conditioner 100. For example, the body 102 may be devoid of fans, heat exchangers, pumps, fluid conduits, spray nozzles, control panels, wires, batteries, and sensors, among other components. Being devoid of such electrically-associated components allows the body 102 to be selectively co-operable with a plurality of lids. As such, it is possible to manufacture a single body to be sold with a variety of lids. A user that already owns a cooler body may be able to buy multiple cooler lids for different occasions. Similarly, a user that already owns a body and a lid combination but wants an updated or enhanced version of the lid, need only purchase an updated lid to achieve the updated version. This reduces manufacturing costs, reduces consumption of materials and natural resources, and minimizes costs to users.

[0037] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the lid 104 of the ice chest air conditioner 100 with lid-based electronics, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. The lid 104 may comprise an upper shell 300 fitted with a lower shell 302. In some examples, the upper shell 300 and the lower shell 302 may comprise a molded plastic material and may fit together via fasteners, interference fit, electronic welding, or other means. Like the chest 101, the lid 104 may include insulation (not shown) between all or portions of the upper shell 300 and the lower shell 302. The insulation may be foam or other suitable materials. A major function of the lid 104 is to retain a significant number of components associated with the air cooling and / or heating function of the ice chest air conditioner 100. The lid 104 may retain all of the electrical components and components associated therewith, allowing the body 102 to be devoid of such components. In some examples, a pump 217 is situated in or on the lid 104. The pump 217 can be secured to the lid 104 such that the pump 217 remains with the lid 104 when the lid 104 is detached from the body 102. The pump 217 is configured to move cold fluid from cavity 103 of the body 102 to the lid 104 to condition the air. A conduit 221 may be coupled to the pump 217 and may extend into the body 102. As such, the conduit 221 is configured to transport cold fluid between the body 102 and the lid 104. Particularly, the pump 217 may move the liquid from the reservoir 103 to a heat exchanger 218 (shown in FIG. 3). Additionally, the pump 217 may move liquid to a spray nozzle 220 (also shown in FIG. 3) to be discharged from the chest 101. In some examples, to move liquid from the reservoir 103 to the heat exchanger 218 or the spray nozzle 220, the pump 217 moves the liquid through liquid conduit 221. The liquid conduit 221 may branch (see FIG. 4) into a heat exchanger intake conduit 224 and a spray nozzle conduit 226. The pump 217 may be a 12-volt electrically powered impeller-based pump and may have a flow rate of around 3 liters per minute.

[0038] A return conduit 230 (shown in FIGS. 4 and 5) may discharge liquid back into the reservoir 103 after it has passed through the heat exchanger 218. This allows for a continuous heat exchanging system whereby the fins of the heat exchanger 218 are continually supplied with new cool liquid for transferring heat away from the warm air. It may be beneficial to return liquid away from the intake conduit 221 so that the liquid can mix with the rest of the liquid in the reservoir 103 and drop in temperature before being sucked into the heat exchanger 218 again. In some examples, the liquid in the return conduit 230 may pass through another heat exchanger before being returned to the reservoir 103. In other examples, it may be desirable for the liquid that passes through the heat exchanger 218 to be interoperable with other functions of the ice chest air conditioner 100, such as the spray nozzle described herein.

[0039] In some examples, the heat exchanger 218 may be attached to the lower shell 302 and / or the upper shell 300. The heat exchanger 218 may be made from aluminum or another material with good thermal conductive properties. The pump 217 described above with respect to FIG. 2 can move cool liquid (e.g., water) from the reservoir 103 through the liquid conduit 221, through the heat exchanger intake conduit 224, and into and through the heat exchanger 218. The cool liquid can cool fins of the heat exchanger 218, the cooled fins allowing for heat transfer to occur between the heat exchanger 218 and air passing across it. In some examples, an exchanger cover 306 may protect and surround the heat exchanger 218 to filter the air and prevent clogging and / or buildup on the heat exchanger 218 as air travels across it. After the cool liquid passes through the heat exchanger 218 it may return to the reservoir 103 by way of the return conduit 230.

[0040] In some examples, the fan 304 is housed between the upper shell 300 and the lower shell 302. The fan 304 may be an electronic fan. The fan 304 may be positioned in close proximity to the heat exchanger 218, so that the fan can draw / push air from within the reservoir 103 across the heat exchanger 218. As air passes across the heat exchanger 218, the air will lose heat to the fins, due to the temperature difference between the heat exchanger 218 and the air. In some examples (e.g., chilly weather), where warm liquid is used to condition the air, the heat exchanger 218 containing warm liquid will lose heat to the air so that a warm stream of air can be sent from the chest 101. In some examples, multiple heat exchangers or reversible / dual-function heat exchangers may be used to perform both the cooling and heating functions.

[0041] After pulling / pushing the air into the heat exchanger 218, the fan 304 can further route and discharge the conditioned air through the outlet port 120 defined in the lid 104. The outlet port 120 may be defined by other components of the chest 101 or the lid 104 and may be positioned in different positions than shown. In some examples, the outlet port 120 may be located on an upper portion of a side of the chest 101 to direct air laterally outwards at a subject positioned nearby. The outlet port 120 may take a variety of forms depending on where it is desirable to direct the conditioned air. As shown in FIG. 1, the outlet port 120 may be curved such that the conditioned air is directed across the top of the lid 104. In some examples, it may be desirable to direct the conditioned air upwards or laterally away from the lid 104. The diameter and shape of the outlet port 120 will affect the pressure and shape of the airstream that exits the chest. For examples, a smaller outlet port 120 may create higher pressure and discharge air at a higher velocity.

[0042] The fan 304 may be a 12-volt direct current fan with a capacity of 226 cubic feet per minute. In some examples, the fan 304 may be adapted from a 105 mm PC case fan, sourced from another fan, or it may be custom fan constructed for use with the ice chest air conditioner 100. The fan 304 could also be an alternating current fan, depending on the battery and control panel used. The fan 304 can be located at various locations about the lid 104. In some examples, the fan 304 is located above the heat exchanger 218 and pulls air from within the reservoir 103 across the heat exchanger 218. In some examples, the fan 304 is located below the heat exchanger 218 and pushes air from within the reservoir 103 across the heat exchanger 218.

[0043] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the fan 304 and the heat exchanger 218 are retained within the lid 104. The heat exchanger 218 and the fan 304 may be attached to the lid 104. For example, the heat exchanger 218 can be attached to the interior of the lid 104 while the fan 304 is positioned within the lid 104. It may be advantageous for the heat exchanger 218 to be positioned on the interior of the lid 104 such that it is in direct communication with the reservoir 103. The heat transfer occurring between the heat exchanger 218 and the air passing across the heat exchanger 218 can cause condensation to occur. When the heat exchanger 218 is in direct communication with the reservoir, condensation can drip directly back into the reservoir, and the fluid can be recirculated throughout the system. However, it is understood that, in other examples, it may be advantageous for the fan 304 and the heat exchanger 218 to be located in another portion of the ice chest air conditioner 100 (e.g., located in the reservoir 103).

[0044] In some examples, the flexible tube 122 can be connected to the outlet port 120 to further direct the discharged stream of air in a direction preferred by the user. The flexible tube 122 can be of any desired length and can be detachable from the outlet port 120. The user may manipulate the orientation of the flexible tube 122 by hand. In some examples, the orientation of the flexible tube 122 can be controlled electronically or automatically. In some examples, the flexible tube may move back and forth or oscillate between orientations, like a fan, to provide air-conditioned air in a plurality of directions repetitively. The flexible tube 122 can connect to the outlet port 120 in a variety of ways, for example, the flexible tube 122 could snap into place or could slide into the outlet port 120 and be secured under compression from the outlet port 120.

[0045] In some examples, the flexible tube 122 can be connected to an air shaft 312 which may include the vent 124. Like the outlet port 120, the flexible tube 122 and the air shaft 312 can connect in a variety of manners, such that the user can easily connect and disconnect the two to switch between functions and configurations. The air shaft 312 may further direct the air in a particular direction certain direction and out the vent 124. The vent 124 can variably control the amount of air and the angle at which air is discharged. For example, the vent 124 may have rotatable shutters that control the angle and the amount of air that is discharged. In some examples, the flexible tube 122 can expand and retract. For example, when the flexible tube 122 is connected to both the outlet port 120 and the vent 124, the flexible tube is in a retracted position. When the flexible tube 122 is disconnected from the air shaft 312, the flexible tube 122 can expand to a variety of lengths, so the air being pushed through the flexible tube 122 can travel a greater distance before being discharged to a specific location.

[0046] The ice chest air conditioner 100 is not only able to discharge temperature-controlled and humidity-controlled air but can spray and mist droplets of liquid. This feature expands the functions and capabilities of the system. When combined with the features previously described, the portable multi-function air conditioner is a versatile air conditioning system usable in all environments. In some examples, the cooled liquid drawn up through the liquid conduit 221 can also run through the spray nozzle conduit 226 to be discharged through the spray nozzle 220. The discharged air can intermingle with the discharged liquid, which further conditions the air. In some examples, the pump 217 or a separate (e.g., secondary) spray pump 417 disposed in the lid 104, such as a high-pressure pump, can move the liquid from the liquid conduit 221 and the spray nozzle conduit 226 out of the spray nozzle 220. The spray nozzle 220 is configured to spray a mist of liquid. Depending on certain variables within the system, the preferred orifice diameter of the spray nozzle 220 may range for 0.05 mm to 0.35 mm, for example, 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm, 0.15 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.25 mm, 0.3 mm, or 0.35 mm. Changing the orifice diameter of the spray nozzle 220 can affect the spray radius and / or the droplet size of the liquid that is discharged, among other things.

[0047] In some examples, the pumps 217, 417 can be situated in one or more compartments 319 recessed in the lid 104. To ensure that the pumps 217, 417 remains dry and can function in all environments, the compartment 319 can be provided with a compartment cover 321. A cover seal 323 (e.g., gasket, o-ring, etc.) may be provided to seal the compartment cover 321 over the pumps 217, 417 within the compartment 319. The compartment cover 321 can be removably fixed to the lid by screws or other means to allow for replacement of the pumps 217, 417 or other components within the compartment 319.

[0048] In some examples the spray nozzle conduit 226 runs out the outlet port 120 and through the flexible tube 122 to a distal tip of the flexible tube 122. In some examples, like the flexible tube 122, the spray nozzle conduit 226 can expand and retract, with the expansion and retraction of the flexible tube 122 when the flexible tube is disconnected from either the air shaft 312 or the outlet port 120. In other examples, the spray nozzle conduit 226 exits the chest 101 from a different outlet port than the outlet port 120. The spray nozzle 220 may be fixed and centered about the circumference of the flexible tube 122. Centering the spray nozzle 220 about the circumference of the flexible tube 122 may ensure that the sprayed liquid is projected symmetrically and evenly outward when coupled with the stream of air flowing through the flexible tube 122. In some examples, the spray nozzle 220 may be fixed to a side of the flexible tube 122. The spray nozzle 220 may extend beyond the distal tip of the flexible tube 122 or may stop short of the end of the distal tip of the flexible tube 122 such that it is hidden from view. When the spray nozzle 220 extends through the flexible tube 122 and / or is fixed to a distal end of the flexible tube 122, it prevents excess liquid from getting stuck within the flexible tube 122, thereby minimizing mold, mildew, and other difficulties resulting from stagnant liquid in a confined space.

[0049] In some examples, the spray nozzle conduit 226 need not run through the flexible tube 122 and can be positioned separate from the flexible tube 122 such that the air in the flexible tube 122 and the sprayed liquid from the spray nozzle 220 can be routed in different directions.

[0050] In some examples, one or more filters 320 may be included to filter the liquid running through the liquid conduit(s) 221. The filter 320 may filter the liquid within the liquid conduit 221 before the liquid reaches the pumps 217, 417. The filter 320 may include a paper filter cartridge. Other types of filters may be used. In some examples, the filter 320 is located in the compartment 319 next to the pumps 217, 417. By filtering the liquid before it reaches the pumps 217, 417 and before it reaches the spray nozzle 220 can prevent the spray nozzle 220 and / or the pumps 217, 417 from clogging and can extend their life before they need to be cleaned or replaced. In the example shown, the spray nozzle 220 is removable and replaceable. Each of the respective pumps 217, 417 may have their own filter.

[0051] The spray nozzle 220 may rotatably couple to a fixture (not shown) which connects the spray nozzle conduit 226 to the distal end of the flexible tube 122. The removable nature of the spray nozzle 220 allows for the use of a new nozzle if the spray nozzle 220 becomes clogged, dirty, or wears out. In some examples, the spray nozzle 220 rotatably couples directly to the spray nozzle conduit 226, for example, when the spray nozzle conduit 226 is not fixed to the flexible tube 122.

[0052] In some examples the spray nozzle 220 is adjustable so that the diameter of the spray and / or the size of the liquid droplets varies, depending on the use. In some examples, the spray nozzle 220 does not spray or mist the liquid, but rather, squirts it in a continuous stream. This may be desirable for cooling a subject at a faster rate or for a certain aesthetic affect. In some examples, the stream of liquid from the spray nozzle 220 can resemble the stream from a hose or a squirt gun.

[0053] The spraying and misting function of the ice chest air conditioner 100 can occur simultaneously or separately from the air conditioning function. When occurring together the stream of air discharged from the chest 101 may help to carry and spread the misted liquid further than it normally would. This allows the sprayed liquid to cover a larger area, providing more reliable and constant relief from the dangers of the environment. A directable stream of cool and moist air can be directed in any direction the user desires to relieve the subject from the dangers of hot weather, or to create a more comfortable environment, even if not in present danger. The spraying and air functions need not be performed together, as described further below.

[0054] In some examples, the compartment 319 may also house a battery 322 or other power supply. The battery can be located elsewhere (e.g., in the reservoir 103, attached to the exterior of the lid 104, etc.) In the example shown in FIG. 3, the battery 322 removably attachable to battery terminal(s) 324 fixed to the compartment cover 321. The battery 322 may be a rechargeable battery based on nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, lithium, or other battery technology. The battery 322 may have a charge indicator that indicates a level of charge of the battery 322. In some examples, when the user presses a button, a level of charge is indicated by the lighting of one or more LEDs. Other forms of charge indicators can be implemented. In some examples, the battery 322 is a 12-volt battery with a capacity of 10,000 mAh. Provisions may also be made for an A / C or DIC adapter (no shown) to recharge the battery 322 and / or power the ice chest air conditioner 100. The compartment 319 may be configured to accept a number of disposable-type batteries such as a lantern battery, D-cells, or the like.

[0055] In some examples, as shown in FIG. 3, a control panel 326 is housed at least partially within the upper shell 300 and / or the lower shell 302. The control panel 326 allows the user to provide an input and control the functions and settings of the ice chest air conditioner 100. The control panel 326 may include buttons 328 for selecting various settings, which activate and deactivate various components of the system (e.g., the fan 304, the heat exchanger 218, the spray pump 417, the pump 217, the spray nozzle 220, etc.). The control panel 326 may be accessible from outside the lid 104. In some examples, the control panel is accessible when the lid 104 of the chest 101 is opened. The control panel may also be located in the body 102 of the chest. The control panel may be operable remotely or via a corded controller, rather than at the chest 101, as described in more detail with respect to FIG. 4.

[0056] In some examples, the speed of the fan 304 is variable. The speed of the fan 304 may have three or more speed settings, for example, a low speed setting, a medium speed setting, and a high speed setting. Additionally, the fan 304 may be set to blow air for a certain period of time, for example, 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 1 hour, etc.

[0057] In some examples, the rate of cooling of the air performed by the heat exchanger 218 is variable. For instance, the button(s) 328 on the control panel 326 can activate an “extreme cool” function to increase the air conditioning capabilities and maximize the difference in temperature of the air discharged from the chest compared to the ambient temperature. When the “extreme cool” setting is activated, the pump 217 may be engaged. When the pump 217 is engaged, the rate at which the heat exchanger circulates cool liquid through the heat exchanger 218 may be increased or maximized, thereby increasing the amount of heat transferred from the air and into the surface area on the heat exchanger 218. When “extreme cool” is not needed or not desired, the “extreme cool” setting can be deactivated and the rate at which the pump 217 pulls in cool liquid into the heat exchanger 218 may be lowered or stopped. When the heat exchanger 218 cycles through the cool liquid at a slower rate, the air will not be cooled to the same degree. However, using less or none of the cooled liquid in the chest 101 will lengthen the amount of time that any ice stays frozen or cold objects remain cold. In some examples, the rate of cooling is selectable with a dial or there may be any number of cooling settings. The variability and versatility of these and other aspects of the ice chest air conditioner 100 allow for function and successful use in all climates and environments.

[0058] The control panel can be designed in a water-proof and weather-resistant manner to allow the ice chest air conditioner 100 to be safely used outdoors and in all environments. The control panel 326 may be sealed into the upper shell 300 via a control panel seal 332 (e.g., gasket, o-ring, etc.).

[0059] In some examples, the control panel 326 is fitted with any number of ports / connectors 330 (e.g., USB ports, DC connectors, coaxial connectors, power source connectors etc.) to charge mobile or other devices. This charging function increases the versatility of the ice chest air conditioner 100. Due to the insulative properties of the chest 101, ice can remain frozen for many days within the reservoir 103. In some instances, the ice may remain frozen longer than a mobile device can maintain a charge. In situations where the ice chest air conditioner 100 is being used for extended periods of time, for example, when camping, or at sporting tournaments, it is advantageous to be able to charge a device while not having to return from the remote location. The ports and connectors may be located at other areas on the lid 104 besides the control panel 326, depending on the design and intended use of a particular cooling system.

[0060] In some examples, the pump 217, the spray pump 417, the fan 304, the heat exchanger 218, and / or other electrical components, may be powered by a power supply. The power supply may be in the lid 104 or elsewhere. It may be necessary to route a power connection 232 (shown in FIG. 4) from the power supply and the control panel 326 to the various components.

[0061] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an ice chest air conditioner 400 with lid-based electronics, in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. As shown, the control panel 326 can be attached to the battery 322. The power connection 232 may connect the control panel 326 to the pump 217 associated with the lid 104. Additionally, the power connection 232 may connect the control panel 326 to the fan 304. The reservoir 103 is filled with ice and cool liquid, the cool liquid resulting from melting of the ice. The liquid conduit 221 splits into two separate conduits, the heat exchanger intake conduit 224 and the spray nozzle conduit 226. In some examples, there are more than one of the liquid conduit 221 extending into the reservoir 103, where one of the liquid conduit 221 acts separately as the heat exchanger intake conduit 224 and another of the liquid conduit 221 acts as the spray nozzle conduit. In such an example, one or more pumps may be used to move fluid through the heat exchanger intake conduit 224 and the spray nozzle conduit 226. The use of more or fewer of the liquid conduit 221 may be beneficial to minimize pressure inconsistencies throughout the system. The heat exchanger 218 is filled with cool liquid from the heat exchanger intake conduit 224. After the cool liquid circulates through the heat exchanger 218, it may return from the heat exchanger 218 to the reservoir 103 by way of the return conduit 230. The fan 304 pulls air from the reservoir 103 and pushes the air through the heat exchanger 218. The fan 304 can be located on either side of the heat exchanger 218. For example, when the heat exchanger 218 is located between the reservoir 103 and the fan 304, the fan pulls the air from the reservoir 103 and through the heat exchanger 218. As the cool air passes across the heat exchanger 218, the air loses heat to the heat exchanger 218 and becomes even cooler. The cold air may be discharged from the chest 101 through the outlet port 120. The flexible tube 122 connected to the outlet port 120 routes the cold air in a desired direction. Meanwhile, liquid in the spray nozzle conduit 226 is moved through the filter 320. The spray pump 417 pushes the liquid forcefully out of the spray nozzle 220. The cold air exiting the flexible tube 122 coupled with the spray from the spray nozzle 220 creates a consistently cold stream of moist airflow.

[0062] The control panel 326, as described above with respect to FIG. 3, includes one or more buttons for selecting the and controlling the multiple functions of the ice chest air conditioner 100. The control panel 326 can be integrated into the chest 101. It is understood that the control panel 326 is not limited to buttons. Other types of switches may provide similar control (e.g., rotary knobs, switches, rocker and / or toggle switches, etc.). The control panel 326 may function as a variable switch between the battery 322 and the fan 304 to provide varying amounts of power or current via power connections 232 to the various components. In this regard, the control panel 326 is capable of functioning as a switch between the battery 322 and the various components. However, the control panel 326 may also function as part of a relay circuit. In some examples, the control panel 326 and / or the battery 322 may provide a level of power or current to the pumps and fan to keep the system operating efficiently and to continuously provide the heat exchanger with chilled or heated liquid. In some examples, the control panel 326 may also selectively control the speed of the pump 217 and the spray pump 417.

[0063] Alternatively, a wired remote 402 can control the multiple functions. Furthermore, in some examples, a wireless remote 404 can control the multiple functions, employing a wireless communication technology. The wired remote 402 and the wireless remote 404 can be used instead of or in addition to the control panel 326. Remote operation allows a user to control the system without having to be nearby, or without having to fully divert attention away from another task. For example, the ice chest air conditioner 100 may be controlled from the driver's seat of a vehicle, from a lawn chair, from a pilot's seat of an aircraft, from the front seat of a golf cart, etc. The wireless remote 404 can provide similar controllability as the wired remote 402 and the control panel 326, but possible in a more convenient fashion.

[0064] FIG. 5 shows a chest of an ice chest air conditioner with lid-based conduits secured thereto. The reservoir 103 has a bottom surface 502 and a plurality of walls 504. In this example, the intake conduit 221 and the return conduit 230 are disposed along one of the plurality of walls 504. A distal end 506 of the intake conduit 221 defines an opening 508 for sucking up fluid from within the reservoir 103. It may be advantageous to locate the opening 508 near the bottom surface 502 of the reservoir 103, so that all of the fluid in the reservoir 103 can be utilized as ice melts and water gravitates towards the bottom surface 502. Similarly, a distal end 510 of the return conduit 230 defines an opening 512 for returning fluid to the reservoir 103 after it has been utilized to provide air conditioning. The opening 512 may also be disposed near the bottom surface 502. In other examples, the opening 512 of the return conduit 230 may be disposed elsewhere within the reservoir or may disposed within the lid 104 such that the fluid returned to the reservoir drips / falls into the reservoir 103 from the lid 104.

[0065] The intake conduit 221 and the return conduit 230 may be releasably secured to the body 102 via holding mechanisms 514. When the lid 104 is attached to the body 102, the conduits 221, 230 may be extended into the body 102 and press-fit, snapped, clasped, fastened, latched, inserted into, or otherwise secured to the body 102 via the holding mechanisms. That is, the holding mechanism may be fit components, a snap, clap, fastener, latch, hose recipient, or other device. In the example shown the holding mechanisms are compliant or flexible clasps that receive and secure the conduits. When the lid 104 is detached from and moved away from the body 102, the conduits 221, 230 can be removed from the holding mechanisms 514 so that either or both of the conduits 221, 230 travel with the lid 104. In other examples, the conduits 221, 230 are releasably secured to the lid 104 via holding mechanisms on the lid, so that the conduits 221, 230 remain with the body 102. The holding mechanism(s) 514 can be formed as part of the body 102 of the lid 104. In other examples, the holding mechanisms(s) 514 themselves may be releasably secured to the body 102. As such, when a cooler body is utilized with a cooler lid that does not require the use of the holding mechanisms 514, the holding mechanisms 514 are left unused and do not unnecessarily take up space within the reservoir 103.

[0066] In the example shown, the intake conduit 221 and the return conduit 230 are attached to and travel with the lid 104, so that the body 102 can be devoid of components associated with the air-conditioning functionalities of the ice chest 101. Because the lid 104 is hingedly attached to the body 102, the distance between a bottom surface (not shown) of the lid 104 and the holding mechanisms 514 is variable as the lid 104 is hingedly open and closed. To ensure that the conduits 221, 230 remain secured to the respective holding mechanisms 514 when the lid 104 is opened and closed, a length of the conduits 221, 230 from the bottom surface of the lid 104 to the distal end (e.g. 506, 510) may be larger than a distance between the bottom surface of the cooler lid 104 and the holding mechanism. In this way, the slack in the conduits 221, 230 while the cooler lid 104 is closed allows for the conduits 221, 230 to remain secured to the holding mechanisms 514 when the cooler lid 104 is opened.

[0067] The above disclosure of lid-based electronics allows for a modular ice chest air conditioning system. For example, a single body (e.g., the body 102) may be selectively co-operable with a first lid having a first electronic arrangement while also being selectively co-operable with a second lid having a second electronic arrangement. When the body 102 is used with the first lid having the first electronic arrangement, a first air conditioning system is formed. As described throughout the disclose the first lid may include the heat exchanger 218 and the pump 217 configured to move fluid from the cavity 103 of the body 102 through the heat exchanger conduit 224 to the heat exchanger 218. The first lid may also include the spray pump 417 configured to move fluid from the cavity 103 through the spray nozzle conduit 226 to the spray nozzle 220. In contrast, the second lid may be devoid of a spray pump 417, for example, but may still employ the pump 217 for driving fluid flow through the heat exchanger. Thus, the first lid may have more features than the second lid. An additional alternative lid may be devoid of any pumps that are configured to move fluid from the body 102 to the second lid. When the modular body 102 is used with the second lid having the second electronic arrangement, a second system (e.g., air conditioning system or non-air conditioning system) is formed. In this way, a single body (e.g., the body 102) may serve as the body for various versions and styles of cooler systems.

[0068] It is appreciated that in operation, a user may fill the ice chest air conditioner 100 with ice, cold water, hot water, or hot objects, which will be maintained in its state by the insulating properties of the reservoir 103. It is contemplated that users may place beverages or other food items within the reservoir 103. As long as a minimal volume of liquid is allowed to remain in the reservoir 103, the liquid may be pumped by the pump 217 to the heat exchanger 218 where the fan 304 can utilize the same for changing the temperature of the air. The conditioned air and the mist can then be directed via the outlet port 120, the flexible tube 122, the air shaft 312, and / or the vent 124 to a location desired by the user.

[0069] The ice chest air conditioner 100 described herein may be wheeled or carried to a desired location and can be activated for providing the cool functions. As the ice chest air conditioner 100 utilizes the cooling capacity of the internally stored ice and / or water, the cooling capabilities may fall to an unacceptable level over a period of time. However, a user can add more ice and / or drain some the of existing liquid via the drain 108. Typical ice-storing coolers need to be drained at the end of their use. However, using the systems and methods described herein, the liquid from within the chest will be discharged in the form of spray or mist. Accordingly, the need to drain the liquid from ice coolers is eliminated or substantially reduced.

[0070] Some of the examples described herein discuss using cool liquid within a chest to further cool air that has already been cooled by the presence of ice, cool liquid, or other cold objects within the chest. However, it is understood that, in other examples, hot liquid may be used to heat air that has already been heated by hot liquid or other hot objects within the chest. Additionally, although this disclosure describes the body 102 being devoid of electronics, it is fully contemplated that similar advantages may occur from body-based electronics. For example, the lid 104 may be devoid of electronics while air conditioning and other electronics are associated with the body 102.

[0071] In the description, specific details have been set forth describing some examples. Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the examples. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that some examples may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. The specific examples disclosed herein are meant to be illustrative but not limiting. One skilled in the art may realize other elements that, although not specifically described here, are within the scope and the spirit of this disclosure.

[0072] Elements described in detail with reference to one example, example, implementation, or application optionally may be included, whenever practical, in other examples, implementations, or applications in which they are not specifically shown or described. For example, if an element is described in detail with reference to one example and is not described with reference to a second example, the element may nevertheless be claimed as included in the second example. Thus, to avoid unnecessary repetition in the foregoing description, one or more elements shown and described in association with one example, implementation, or application may be incorporated into other examples, implementations, or application unless specifically described otherwise, unless the one or more elements would make an example or implementation non-functional, or unless two or more of the elements provide conflicting functions. Similarly, it should be understood that any particular element, including a system component or a method process, is optional and is not considered to be an essential feature of the present disclosure unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0073] Any alterations and further modifications to the described devices, systems, methods, and any further application of the principles of the present disclosure are fully contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates. In particular, it is fully contemplated that the features, components, and / or steps described with respect to one example may be combined with the features, components, and / or steps described with respect to other examples of the present disclosure. In addition, dimensions and temporal relationships provided herein are for providing specific examples and it is contemplated that different sizes, dimensions, relationships and / or ratios may be utilized to implement the concepts of the present disclosure. To avoid needless descriptive repetition, one or more components or actions described in accordance with one illustrative example can be used or omitted as applicable from other illustrative examples. For the sake of brevity, the numerous iterations of these combinations will not be described separately. For simplicity, in some instances the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0074] The methods described herein are illustrated as a set of operations or processes. Not all of the illustrated processes may be performed in all examples of the methods. Additionally, one or more processes that are not expressly illustrated or described may be included before, after, in between, or as part of the example processes. In some examples, one or more of the processes may be performed by a controller and / or may be implemented, at least in part, in the form of executable code stored on non-transitory, tangible, computer or machine-readable media that when run by one or more processors may cause the one or more processors to perform one, some, or all of the processes described in relation to the methods herein. Elements illustrated in block diagrams herein may be implemented with hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. One block element being illustrated separate from another block element does not necessarily require that the functions performed by each separate element requires distinct hardware or software but rather they are illustrated separately for the sake of description.

[0075] One or more elements in examples of this disclosure may be implemented in software to execute on one or more processors of a computer system such as a controller. When implemented in software, the elements of the examples of the present disclosure are essentially the code segments to perform the necessary tasks. The program or code segments can be stored in a processor readable storage medium or device that may have been downloaded by way of a computer data signal embodied in a carrier wave over a transmission medium or a communication link. The processor readable storage device may include any medium that can store information including an optical medium, semiconductor medium, and magnetic medium. Processor readable storage device examples include an electronic circuit; a semiconductor device, a semiconductor memory device, a read only memory (ROM), a flash memory, an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM); a floppy diskette, a CD-ROM, an optical disk, a hard disk, or other storage device. The code segments may be downloaded via computer networks such as the Internet, Intranet, etc. Any of a wide variety of centralized or distributed data processing architectures may be employed. Programmed instructions may be implemented as a number of separate programs or subroutines, or they may be integrated into a number of other aspects of the systems described herein. In one example, the control system supports wireless communication protocols such as Bluetooth, IrDA, HomeRF, IEEE 802.11, DECT, and Wireless Telemetry.

[0076] In some instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuits have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the examples. While certain exemplary examples of the present disclosure have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such examples are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad disclosure herein, and that the examples of the present disclosure should not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A portable ice chest air-conditioning system comprising:a cooler body having a cavity configured to hold cold fluid;a cooler lid configured to provide selective access to the cooler body; andelectronics disposed in or on the cooler lid and configured to condition air using the cold fluid, the electronics including a pump in or on the cooler lid and configured to move cold fluid from the cavity of the cooler body to the cooler lid to condition the air.

2. The portable ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 1, wherein the cooler lid is detachable from the cooler body, and wherein the pump is secured to the cooler lid such that the pump remains with the cooler lid when the cooler lid is detached from the cooler body.

3. The portable ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 1, wherein the electronics further comprise:a heat exchanger configured to receive the cold fluid from the cooler body; anda fan configured to move air across the heat exchanger.

4. The portable ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 1, wherein the cooler lid includes a conduit coupled to the pump and extending into the cooler body, the conduit configured to transport cold fluid between the cooler body and the cooler lid.

5. The portable ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 4, wherein the cooler body includes a reservoir having a bottom surface, and wherein an opening defined by the conduit is disposed near the bottom surface of the reservoir.

6. The portable ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 4, wherein the conduit is disposed along a wall of the cooler body.

7. The portable ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 4, wherein the cooler body includes a holding mechanism configured to releasably secure the conduit within the cooler body.

8. The portable ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 7, wherein a length of the conduit from a bottom surface of the cooler lid to a distal tip of the conduit is larger than a distance between the cooler lid and the holding mechanism both when the cooler lid is open and when the cooler lid is closed.

9. The portable ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 7, wherein the holding mechanism is formed as part of the cooler body.

10. The portable ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 7, wherein the holding mechanism is releasably securable to the cooler body.

11. A modular ice chest air-conditioning system comprising:an ice chest body having a cavity configured to hold cold fluid, the ice chest body being devoid of electronic components that operate the air-conditioning system;a first lid having a first electronic arrangement selectively co-operable with the ice chest body to form a first air-conditioning system; anda second lid having a second electronic arrangement selectively co-operable with the ice chest body to form a second air-conditioning system.

12. The modular ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 11, wherein the first electronic arrangement of the first lid includes a heat exchanger and a first pump, the first pump configured to move cold fluid from the cavity of the ice chest body through a conduit to the heat exchanger.

13. The modular ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 12, wherein the first electronic arrangement of the first lid includes a second pump configured to move cold fluid from the cavity of the ice chest body through a conduit to a spray nozzle of the first air-conditioning system.

14. The modular ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 12, wherein the second lid is devoid of any pumps configured to move cold fluid from the ice chest body to the second lid.

15. The modular ice chest air-conditioning system of claim 12, wherein when the first lid is attached to the ice chest body, the conduit is positioned in the cavity in a manner to transport cold fluid from the ice chest body to the first lid.

16. An air conditioning system of a cooler, the air conditioning system comprising:a heat exchanger carried by a lid of the cooler and configured to cool air moving across the heat exchanger;a first pump carried by the lid of the cooler and configured to pump cold fluid from a body of the cooler to the heat exchanger; anda fan carried by the lid of the cooler and configured to move air across the heat exchanger to cool the air.

17. The air conditioning system of claim 16, further comprising a conduit attached to the lid and disposable within the body of the cooler when the lid is attached to the body.

18. The air conditioning system of claim 17, wherein the conduit includes an intake conduit and a discharge conduit, both the intake conduit and the discharge conduit being releasably securable to a wall of the body of the cooler.

19. The air conditioning system of claim 16, further comprising:a control panel disposed in the lid of the cooler and operable to selectively actuate the first pump and to selectively actuate the fan.

20. The air conditioning system of claim 16, further comprising:a spray nozzle; anda second pump disposed in the lid of the cooler and operable to pump fluid through the spray nozzle and out of the air conditioning system.

21. A portable air conditioning system usable as an ice chest, the air conditioning system comprising:an ice chest body having a cavity configured to hold cold fluid;a lid configured to provide selective access to the cavity of the ice chest body; anda heat exchanger carried by the lid and configured to cool air moving across the heat exchanger;a first pump carried by the lid and configured to pump cold fluid from the ice chest body to the heat exchanger; anda fan carried by the lid configured to move air across the heat exchanger to cool the air,the ice chest body being devoid of electronic components.

22. The portable air conditioning system of claim 21, further comprising a power source connector carried by the lid.

23. The portable air conditioning system of claim 21, further comprising a first lid with a first electronic arrangement and a second lid with a second different electronic arrangement, each of the first lid and the second lid being configured to couple with the ice chest body.

24. A portable air conditioning system usable as an ice chest, the air conditioning system comprising:an ice chest body having a cavity configured to hold cold fluid;a lid configured to provide selective access to the cavity of the ice chest body; anda heat exchanger configured to cool air moving across the heat exchanger;a first pump configured to pump cold fluid from the ice chest body to the heat exchanger; anda fan configured to move air across the heat exchanger to cool the air,wherein the heat exchanger, the first pump, and the fan are all carried on one of the lid or the ice chest body, and wherein the other of the lid or the ice chest body is devoid of electronic components.

25. The portable air conditioning system of claim 24, further comprising a power source connector carried by the one of the lid or the ice chest body.

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