Cooler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coolers lack enhanced functionality, such as accessory systems for improved usability and aesthetics, while also requiring improved manufacturability and maintainability.
Innovation Solution
A cooler design featuring an accessory system with bottle or can holders, a post holder, and a lock assembly, along with a cushion assembly and handle mount, which includes a recess for hand lift assistance and a lockable lid mechanism, enhancing usability and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If accessory systems are added to the cooler (bottle holders, post holder, lock assembly), then functionality and usability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooler lid is designed with multiple integrated functions: it serves as a structural cover, provides accessory mounting surfaces for bottle/can holders and post holders, incorporates a lock assembly for security, and supports a removable cushion for seating. This multi-functionality approach allows a single component (the lid) to fulfill multiple roles, improving versatility without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines several accessory systems into a unified cooler design. The accessory mount integrates bottle holders, can holders, and post holders into a single mounting structure on the lid. The lock assembly is integrated into the lid structure rather than being a separate component. The cushion assembly is designed to work with the lid's inherent structure. This merging of components reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall system.
2Area of stationary object
If accessory mounts are positioned in the recess for opening the cooler lid, then space utilization is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The recess in the cooler lid is designed with differentiated local qualities: a first portion provides a hand engagement area for opening the lid, while a second portion accommodates the accessory mount. This local differentiation allows the same recess structure to serve dual purposes - facilitating easy opening through the hand engagement area while maximizing space utilization by incorporating accessories in the second portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess is segmented into functional zones: one zone dedicated to user interaction (hand lift area) and another zone for accessory placement. This segmentation allows the opening function and accessory mounting function to coexist without interfering with each other, maintaining ease of operation while improving space utilization.
3Reliability
If a lock assembly with tongue extending through base or lid is added, then security is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lock assembly incorporates a movable tongue that can extend and retract relative to the lid or base. This dynamic element allows the locking mechanism to engage and disengage through simple linear motion, providing secure locking without requiring complex alignment or high-precision manufacturing. The tongue's movement compensates for minor dimensional variations in the mating components.
Data Source
AI summary
A cooler is provided which has various improvements. The cooler may be a passive cooler or may be actively cooled for providing desirable cooling effects. The cooler may include an accessory system, for example, with bottle or can holders or a post holder which utilizes the weight of the cooler to support a sunshade. The accessory system may be positioned in various locations of the cooler, one location being in a recess which is utilized to open the cooler lid. The smart cooler may also comprise a cushion assembly which may be placed on an upper surface of the lid and may have straps to retain the cushion on the lid. The lid may be formed to accept and retain a cushion retaining feature so that the cushion does not excessively move from the top surface of the lid.