A multi layer temperature sustaining pet feeder

Abstract

The present invention discloses a multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder which sustains desired hot or cold food temperatures without pre-heating / freezing components. The feeder comprises an inner stainless steel vessel (1) for containing pet food / water, surrounded by a thermal insulation layer (2) of fiberglass wool mat material. This insulative core is encapsulated by an outer polypropylene shell (3) having an exterior surface molded with decorative patterns like paw prints or pet shapes. A non-skid thermoplastic rubber base layer (4) integrated with the shell's bottom prevents sliding / spills during feeding. The insulation layer's low thermal conductivity minimizes heat transfer, maintaining initial hot or cold temperatures for extended durations. The stainless steel, dishwasher-safe construction enables easy cleaning. The rubberized base provides exceptional grip and stability. Integrating temperature-regulation, spill prevention, aesthetic customization and hygienic design into one food-safe assembly caters to pet owners' needs for serving fresh, palatable temperature-appropriate meals conveniently while preventing food wastage.

Description

[0001] A MULTI LAYER TEMPERATURE SUSTAINING PET FEEDER

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of pet accessories, particularly pet feeding and water bowls or containers. More particularly, the invention pertains to multi-layered, insulated feeding bowls designed to maintain the temperature of served pet food and water for extended durations.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Providing fresh, temperature-appropriate meals is a fundamental aspect of responsible pet care and nutrition that significantly impacts a pet's health, wellbeing, and overall quality of life. Pets, much like their human counterparts, exhibit distinct preferences for foods served at specific temperature levels. Hot dishes are best enjoyed when appropriately warm, while chilled or frozen foods lose their appeal and desirability if not maintained at the intended cool temperature until consumed. Preserving the carefully prepared temperature state of pet foods not only enhances palatability but also safeguards the optimal nutritional integrity and freshness, promoting the overall well-being of our beloved animal companions.

[0006] However, the pet accessory market has consistently struggled to deliver a comprehensive solution that effectively addresses the multifaceted challenges associated with temperature regulation in pet feeding bowls. Conventional options, whether crafted from plastic, ceramic, or stainless steel, suffer from a fundamental inability to sustain desired food temperatures for more than a fleeting period after serving. The inherent lack of insulation in these materials facilitates rapid heat transfer between the bowl and its surroundings, leading to an undesirable equilibration of the food's temperature with ambient conditions.

[0007] This inherent flaw gives rise to a cascade of issues that compromise the pet's dining experience and nutritional intake. Hot foods, such as warm, meat-based dishes or heated wet foods, cool rapidly, diminishing their appeal and risking potential digestive discomfort or health concerns if consumed at improper lower temperatures. Conversely, chilled foods like refrigerated wet foods or frozen meals intended for cool serving quickly lose their refreshing temperature, fostering an environment conducive to bacterial proliferation and compromising food safety if not consumed promptly.

[0008] While the market has attempted to address the need for chilled pet foods through the introduction of bowls with freezable inserts, these solutions are plagued by significant limitations. Not only do they require the cumbersome and time-consuming pre-freezing of inserts, but they are also inherently restricted to serving only cold or frozen foods, rendering them incapable of maintaining hot food temperatures. This lack of versatility severely limits their practical utility. Furthermore, the inserts' finite thermal capacity inevitably leads to a gradual warming of the chilled contents over time, diminishing their effectiveness. Compounding these issues, many freezable insert bowls are constructed from plastic materials that can be challenging to clean thoroughly, potentially harboring bacteria or undesirable odors.

[0009] Beyond the temperature regulation challenges, pet owners also grapple with the frustration of lightweight bowls sliding or spinning when nudged by their furry companions during feeding, resulting in unintended spills and unsightly messes in the surrounding area. Conventional pet bowls offer minimal resistance to such movements due to their smooth surfaces and lack of weight or traction, exacerbating this common issue.

[0010] Moreover, the aesthetic appeal of pet feeding bowls has often been an afterthought, with limited design variations or customization options available to pet owners seeking accessories that complement their home decor or personal style preferences.

[0011] There is therefore a need for an innovative, temperature-sustaining pet feeding bowl that transcends the limitations of existing products, delivering optimum temperature preservation. Further, there is requirement of pet feeding bowl that effectively prevents spills and messes during use, and facilitates easy cleaning and maintenance. Moreover, there is need for pet feeding bowl with customizable aesthetic designs, thereby meeting the diverse requirements of pet owners who demand a convenient and reliable solution for serving fresh, temperature-appropriate pet meals.

[0012] OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The principal object of this invention is to provide a multi-layer, temperature-sustaining pet feeder capable of maintaining hot or cold temperatures of food and water contents for extended periods after serving, without any pre-freezing requirements.

[0014] Another key object is to incorporate a non-slip, weighted base layer into the pet feeder design to prevent sliding and spinning of the bowl when pets are feeding, thereby minimizing spills and messes.

[0015] An additional object is to enable decorative molding on the outer surface of the pet feeder to enhance aesthetic appeal and product customization options for pet owners.

[0016] The invention aims to provide an integrated solution combining thermal insulation, anti-skid properties, and aesthetic design elements into a durable, easy-to-clean, multi-purpose pet feeding accessory. This addresses the shortcomings of existing pet bowls while catering to the needs of pet owners seeking convenience and an enhanced feeding experience for their pets.

[0017] SUMMARY

[0018] The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure and it does not identify key / critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. A more complete appreciation of the present invention and the scope thereof can be obtained from the accompanying drawings which are briefly summarized below and the following detailed description of the presently preferred embodiments.

[0019] The embodiment of the present invention contemplates to a multi-layer, temperature-sustaining pet feeding bowl designed to maintain the ideal serving temperature of pet food and water for extended durations. The feeder comprises multiple integrated layers, each serving a vital function.

[0020] Another embodiment of the invention discloses, the innermost layer which is made of stainless steel. Stainless steel, favored for its ease of cleaning, bacteria resistance, durability, and food-safe properties. This inner vessel can have varying dimensions, depths, and contoured shapes like circular bowls, elongated trays or segmented portions to accommodate different pet sizes and separate wet / dry foods.

[0021] Another embodiment of the invention discloses, the second layer surrounding the inner steel vessel, is a thermal insulation layer comprised of fiberglass wool mat material. This insulative layer encapsulates the inner vessel, providing temperature regulation capabilities. The fiberglass wool mat slows heat transfer between the inner vessel and outer layers, sustaining initial hot or cold food / water temperatures for extended periods exceeding regular pet bowls. The specific thickness, density and type of fiberglass material can be optimized based on desired insulation effectiveness.

[0022] Another embodiment of the invention discloses, the third layer, which is an outer plastic shell made of polypropylene (PP) material that encases the fiberglass insulation layer and inner steel vessel. PP plastic offers chemical resistance, heat resistance, ease of molding / coloring, and food-safe qualities. The exterior surface of this PP shell can be molded, textured or sculpted with decorative three-dimensional design features like paw prints, bones, fish shapes, pet portraits or custom logos to enhance product aesthetics and enable customization. Another embodiment of the invention discloses, the outermost fourth layer comprises a non-skid, anti-slip thermoplastic rubber (TPR) base integrated with the bottom exterior of the PP plastic shell. This TPR base layer includes surface patterns, grooves, feet or textures that increase traction and resist sliding of the pet feeder during use. Optional weighted inserts or fillers may be added to the TPR base to further enhance its non-slip grip and heft.

[0023] Another embodiment of the invention discloses, that all the four layers are securely bonded, clamped or co-molded into a unified, integrated assembly using adhesives, thermal bonding, fasteners or other multi-component joining means as appropriate.

[0024] A key embodiment of the invention is the synergistic integration of the insulative fiberglass layer between the inner vessel and outer shell, enabling extended hot and cold temperature preservation without pre-freezing components. The TPR base prevents spills / messes, while the PP shell allows decorative designs. The overall assembly is dishwasher-safe, easy to clean, and uses food-grade, pet-safe materials. By harmoniously combining temperature regulation, spill prevention, aesthetic customization and ease of use into one multi-layer design, this versatile pet feeder adequately addresses the shortcomings of conventional bowls. It provides a convenient solution for pet owners to serve both hot and cold meals while maintaining food temperatures, ideal for promoting pet health and preventing wastage. Additional embodiments cover varying materials, dimensions, surface textures, assembly sequences and design configurations to optimize the core multi-layer temperature-sustaining functionality.

[0025] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description.

[0026] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals have been used to designate like elements, and wherein

[0027] FIGURE. 1 shows the various layers of the multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0030] The use of “including”, “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item. Further, the use of terms “first”, “second”, and “third”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0031] Referring now to the figure 1 , the four-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder comprises several integrated components that synergistically function to maintain ideal serving temperatures while providing additional benefits like spill prevention, aesthetic customization and ease of use. The innermost layer is a food and water holding vessel (1 ) made entirely of stainless steel. Stainless steel is specifically chosen for this inner vessel due to its superior properties including corrosion resistance, ease of cleaning, inherent antimicrobial nature, and ability to withstand temperature extremes while remaining food-safe. This inner stainless steel vessel (1 ) can be manufactured in various shapes and sizes tailored for different pet types. In one embodiment, the vessel takes the form of a circular bowl with a wide mouth and semi-deep contoured bottom to accommodate different portion sizes. Alternative embodiments include elongated trough or rectangular-shaped vessels to better separate wet and dry foods. The inside surface of the steel vessel (1 ) may optionally incorporate texturing, patterns or coatings to enhance grip and prevent sliding of the food contents.

[0032] Immediately surrounding this inner stainless steel vessel (1 ) is a core middle thermal insulation layer (2) comprising fiberglass wool mat material. This insulative layer (2) completely encapsulates the inner vessel (1 ), acting as a temperature regulation shell. The fiberglass wool possesses an inherently low thermal conductivity that minimizes heat transfer between the inner vessel (1 ) and outer layers. This insulating property allows initial hot or cold temperatures of foods and liquids contained within the stainless steel vessel (1 ) to be sustained for extended durations far exceeding regular pet bowls.

[0033] In one embodiment, the fiberglass wool insulation layer (2) comprises a continuous mat or blanket custom-fitted to the specific shape and contours of the inner vessel (1 ) to maximize surface contact. An alternative embodiment employs pre-formed fiberglass wool shells or casings dimensioned to create a cavity for housing the inner vessel (1 ) while maintaining uniform insulation thickness all around. The insulation layer (2) may optionally incorporate air gap spacers, vacuum-sealed chambers or other thermal barrier elements to further enhance temperature preservation capabilities based on intended use requirements.

[0034] The insulative core formed by the stainless steel vessel (1 ) and surrounding fiberglass layer (2) is then encased within an outer plastic shell layer (3). This outer shell (3) is preferably made from polypropylene (PP) plastic selected for its high chemical resistance, temperature resistance, ease of molding / coloring and ability to accept food-safe coatings or decorations. The interior surface of the PP shell (3) is shaped to mate seamlessly with the outer contours of the fiberglass insulation layer (2), creating a compact integrated assembly.

[0035] A key aspect of the outer PP shell (3) is the provision for integrating decorative design features on its exterior surface. In one embodiment, the shell's exterior is molded or sculpted during manufacturing to incorporate three-dimensional patterns resembling paw prints, pet bones, fish shapes, animal portraits or custom logos. This allows pet owners to select aesthetic designs aligning with personal tastes or home decor preferences. An alternative embodiment enables post-molding surface decoration techniques like engraving, embossing, pad printing or application of adhesive decorations on the PP shell's exterior.

[0036] The final outermost layer is a non-skid rubberized base (4) intimately bonded or co-molded with the bottom exterior surface of the PP shell (3). This base layer (4) is preferably made from thermoplastic rubber (TPR) compounds chosen for their high coefficients of friction, impact resistance, temperature stability and overall durability. The rubberized TPR base (4) can be molded or embossed with various surface textures like concentric grooves, interconnected gripping feet, radial ribs or bio-inspired patterns to maximize traction and prevent sliding of the pet feeder during use.

[0037] In one embodiment, the TPR base (4) integrates dense fillers, weighted inserts or increased rubber thickness in key areas to augment the overall heft and mass of the pet feeder. This extra weight combined with the high surface friction ensures exceptional grip and stability, eliminating concerns of accidental sliding, spinning or tipping even when pets are relatively aggressive during feeding.

[0038] The four core layers - inner stainless vessel (1 ), fiberglass insulation (2), PP outer shell (3) and rubberized TPR base (4) - are securely joined together into a monolithic integrated assembly using adhesives, thermal bonding, mechanical fasteners, co-molding or other multi-component joining techniques compatible with the different materials. Careful attention is given to ensuring reliable bonding between the fiberglass insulation (2) and inner steel vessel (1 ) as well as the PP shell (3) to maximize temperature preservation performance.

[0039] A key aspect of this invention is the synergistic combination of the four layers to provide a multitude of benefits. The fiberglass wool layer (2) enables hot and cold temperature regulation of the inner steel vessel (1 ) contents without any pre-freezing requirements. The PP outer shell (3) allows decorative designs for aesthetics while the TPR base (4) prevents spills / slidi ng during pet feeding. The overall assembly is made from dishwasher-safe, food-grade materials for easy cleaning and pet safety.

[0040] The dimensions, shape, materials and construction specifics of each layer can be modified based on considerations like pet size, intended temperature range, insulation duration requirements and desired aesthetic options. For example, larger or deeper stainless steel inner vessels (1 ) may be used for bigger pet breeds like large dogs. Thicker or higher density fiberglass insulation (2) can increase thermal resistance for extended temperature holding periods. The TPR base (4) can incorporate different textures or weighting to optimize grip characteristics.

[0041] While the preferred embodiments utilize stainless steel, fiberglass wool mat, polypropylene and thermoplastic rubber for the core layers, alternative materials with similar properties can be substituted based on specific requirements or manufacturing considerations. Examples include the use of aluminum, copper or ceramic for the inner vessel layer, aerogel insulation blankets, engineered plastics like PETG or recyclable bio-polymers for the outer shell, and other elastomeric compounds in lieu of TPR for the rubberized base layer.

[0042] The integrated four-layer temperature sustaining pet feeder design allows for modular scalability to create product variants spanning different sizes, shapes and thermal capacities for pets ranging from small animals like cats and rabbits to larger dog breeds. Customized decorative patterns, colors and textures on the outer shell can further expand product variations aligning with diverse consumer preferences.

[0043] Manufacturing of the multi-layer temperature-regulating pet feeder involves a series of intricate processes expertly harmonized to integrate the various components into a cohesive, high-performance assembly. The manufacturing sequence can be tailored to accommodate different product configurations, materials, and desired aesthetic features, ensuring versatility and scalability in production.

[0044] In one embodiment, the manufacturing process commences with the creation of the outer plastic shell layer. Utilizing advanced injection molding machinery, a polypropylene (PP) resin is precisely heated and injected into a mold cavity shaped according to the desired bowl or tray geometry. This initial molding step not only forms the base structure of the outer shell but can also incorporate intricate surface details and textures, such as decorative patterns, ridges, or embossed features, directly into the plastic surface during the molding phase.

[0045] Subsequent to the plastic shell molding, an additional injection molding step can be employed to integrate the non-skid base layer. In this phase, a thermoplastic rubber (TPR) compound, carefully formulated for optimal grip and durability, is injected or over-molded onto the bottom exterior surface of the previously formed PP shell. This co-molding process ensures a robust, permanent bond between the plastic shell and the high-friction TPR base layer, which can be textured or patterned with intricate grooves, treads, or bio-inspired surface features to enhance traction and prevent sliding during use.

[0046] In an alternative embodiment, the TPR base layer can be applied as a separate operation after the initial PP shell molding. This approach involves techniques such as compression molding, transfer molding, or injection molding of the TPR material directly onto the pre-formed PP shell's base surface. Adhesion promotion methods, including surface treatments or intermediate bonding layers, can be employed to ensure a strong, long-lasting integration between the plastic shell and the rubberized base.

[0047] The manufacturing of the inner stainless steel vessel follows a distinct set of processes. Utilizing heavy-duty metalworking equipment and precision tooling, flat stainless steel blanks or coils are deep-drawn, stamped, or spun into the desired bowl, tray, or segmented cavity shapes. Depending on the specific product design, additional metalworking operations like trimming, beading, or surface finishing may be performed to achieve the required dimensional tolerances, edge profiles, and interior surface characteristics.

[0048] In one embodiment, the stainless steel vessel undergoes a beading process, where the outer rim or edge is mechanically formed into a raised bead or flange profile. This bead feature not only enhances the structural integrity of the vessel but also facilitates secure integration with the surrounding insulation layer and outer plastic shell during the final assembly phase.

[0049] The manufacturing of the critical thermal insulation layer involves specialized techniques tailored to the specific insulative material employed. In the case of fiberglass wool mat insulation, the process may involve cutting, forming, or compression-molding the fiberglass material into precise shapes and cavities conforming to the contours of the inner stainless steel vessel. Alternative insulation materials, such as aerogels, vacuum-insulated panels, or advanced composite insulation felts, may require different fabrication processes, including molding, layering, or encapsulation techniques, to achieve the desired thermal performance and geometric profiles.

[0050] Once the individual components - the outer PP plastic shell, TPR non-skid base, inner stainless steel vessel, and insulation layer - have been manufactured, the final assembly process commences. In one embodiment, the insulation layer is carefully positioned around the inner stainless steel vessel, ensuring consistent coverage and minimizing air gaps or thermal bridging. This insulated core is then inserted into the cavity of the pre-formed outer PP shell, with provisions for precise alignment and intimate contact between the insulation layer and the interior surfaces of the plastic shell.

[0051] The integration of the assembled core into the outer shell can be achieved through various techniques, including adhesive bonding, thermal welding, mechanical fastening, or a combination thereof. In the case of adhesive bonding, specialized high-temperature, food-grade adhesives are strategically applied to the mating surfaces, ensuring a robust, long-lasting bond capable of withstanding the thermal stresses and potential moisture exposure inherent in the product's intended use.

[0052] Alternatively, thermal welding processes, such as ultrasonic welding, vibration welding, or hot plate welding, can be employed to fuse the plastic shell directly to the insulation layer and / or the inner stainless steel vessel. These techniques leverage localized melting and re-solidification of the plastic material to create a seamless, monolithic joint between the components, eliminating the need for additional adhesives or mechanical fasteners.

[0053] In embodiments where mechanical fastening is preferred, the design may incorporate features like snap-fit geometries, threaded fasteners, or interlocking profiles strategically positioned between the various layers. These mechanical interfaces not only facilitate secure assembly but also allow for potential disassembly and maintenance, if required.

[0054] Throughout the manufacturing process, stringent quality control measures are implemented at critical stages to ensure dimensional accuracy, material integrity, and overall product performance. Inspections, testing, and validation protocols are employed to verify the thermal insulation capabilities, non-slip characteristics, structural integrity, and adherence to food-safety and pet-safety standards.

[0055] The manufacturing sequence can be further optimized and streamlined through the integration of automated processes, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies, enabling efficient, high-volume production while maintaining consistently high product quality and repeatability.

[0056] Ultimately, the manufacturing of the multi-layer temperature-regulating pet feeder demands a harmonious convergence of diverse materials, intricate processes, and stringent quality controls, all orchestrated to deliver a product that seamlessly blends functional excellence with aesthetic appeal, catering to the evolving needs of pet owners and their beloved animal companions.

[0057] Ultimately, this innovative multi-layer pet feeder harmoniously combines temperature regulation capabilities for hot or cold foods with spill prevention, integrated aesthetic design, ease of cleaning and maintenance-free convenience into a single product - addressing the key shortcomings of conventional pet bowls while elevating the entire pet feeding experience.

[0058] In the foregoing specification, the invention is described with reference to specific embodiments thereof, but those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited thereto. Various features and aspects of the abovedescribed invention may be used individually or jointly. Further, the invention can be utilized in any number of environments and applications beyond those described herein without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the specification. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be recognized that the terms "comprising," including," and "having," as used herein, are specifically intended to be read as open-ended terms of art.

Claims

Claims1 . A multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder comprising an inner vessel for containing pet food and water, the said inner vessel comprising a metal or ceramic material; a thermal insulation layer surrounding said inner vessel, the said insulation layer comprising a low thermal conductivity material; an outer shell encapsulating said insulation layer, the said outer shell comprising a plastic or polymer material and having an exterior surface; and a base layer integrated with a bottom portion of said outer shell, the said base layer comprising a high friction material to resist sliding of the pet feeder.

2. The multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the said inner vessel is preferably made up of stainless steel, aluminum, copper or ceramic.

3. The multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the said thermal insulation layer comprises fiberglass wool mat, aerogel, vacuum insulated panels or other insulative materials.

4. The multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the said outer shell is made of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), thermoplastic polymers or engineered plastics.

5. The multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said base layer is made of thermoplastic rubber (TPR), elastomeric compounds, or materials with a high coefficient of friction and incorporates weighted elements, dense fillers or increased material thickness in specific regions to enhance grip and resist sliding.

6. The multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder as claimed in claim 1 , wherein exterior surface of the said outer shell is molded, textured or contoured with decorative patterns, shapes or designs.

7. The multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said inner vessel, insulation layer, outer shell and base layer are joined together as an integrated assembly using adhesives, thermal bonding, mechanical fasteners or co-molding techniques.

8. The multi-layer temperature-regulating pet feeder according to claim 1 , wherein said inner vessel is configurable in a plurality of dimensions, depths, and contoured geometries to optimize based on requirements, said geometries including, but not limited to, circular bowls with varying diameters and side wall profiles for accommodating different pet sizes, elongated trough or tray configurations enabling simultaneous serving of separate wet and dry food portions, and segmented multi-cavity designs partitioning spaces for individualized containment of solids, semi-solids and liquids tailored to specific pet dietary needs.

9. A method of manufacturing a multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder, comprising forming an outer shell layer comprising a plastic or polymer material, said outer shell layer having an interior cavity and an exterior bottom surface; molding or integrating a high friction base layer onto said exterior bottom surface of the outer shell layer, said base layer comprising a material with a high coefficient of friction to resist sliding of the pet feeder; fabricating an inner vessel for containing pet food and water, said inner vessel comprising a metal, ceramic, or other temperature-resistant material; producing a thermal insulation layer comprising a low thermal conductivity material; positioning said thermal insulation layer in surrounding configuration around said inner vessel to form an insulated core assembly; inserting said insulated core assembly into said interior cavity of the outer shell layer; and joining said insulated core assembly with said outer shell layer and said base layer to form an integrated multi-layer temperature-regulating pet feeder.

10. The method of manufacturing a multi-layer temperature-sustaining pet feeder as claimed in claim 9, wherein said joining comprises applying adhesive between mating surfaces of said insulated core assembly and said interior cavity of the outer shell layer; mechanically fastening said insulated core assembly to said outer shell layer using interlocking features, snap-fits, threaded fasteners or clamping mechanisms.

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