Cooler Accessory System Design for Multi-Function Versatility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coolers lack functionality enhancements such as connectability for additional seating, accessory mounts, and improved manufacturability while maintaining aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A cooler with an accessory system that includes bottle or can holders, a post holder, and a cushion assembly, featuring a recess for the lid to open, a lock assembly, and a cushion retention system using straps, along with a handle mount and rail insert for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If accessory mounts and additional features are added to the cooler, then functionality and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooler is designed with multiple accessory mounts that can accommodate various types of accessories (bottle holders, can holders, post holders, cup holders, etc.), allowing a single cooler unit to serve multiple functions and adapt to different user needs without requiring multiple separate products
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory system is divided into separate, interchangeable components that can be independently attached or removed from the cooler body, allowing users to customize their cooler setup and simplify the overall system by only attaching needed accessories
2Adaptability or versatility
If accessory mounts are added to the cooler surfaces, then functionality is improved, but the ability to open and close the cooler is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
Accessory mounts are strategically positioned in specific locations on the cooler (such as on the lid surface away from hinge areas, or on the body near the base) to provide functionality while maintaining clear paths for lid opening and closing operations
Solution Approach 2:
Accessory mounts are designed to be recessed into the cooler surfaces or positioned in three-dimensional spaces that do not interfere with the two-dimensional plane of lid movement, allowing accessories to be mounted without blocking lid operation
3Adaptability or versatility
If accessory mounts are integrated into the cooler, then functionality is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Accessory mounts are pre-integrated into the cooler mold during the manufacturing process, allowing accessories to be attached later without requiring complex post-manufacturing assembly steps or specialized tooling
Solution Approach 2:
A standardized mount design is used throughout the cooler that can accommodate multiple types of accessories, reducing the number of different mold types and manufacturing processes needed compared to having custom mounts for each accessory type
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.