Insulated Container Wheel Layout for Rough-Terrain Towing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current insulated containers are not designed for efficient transport over rough terrain and lack towing capabilities, making them difficult to move and potentially damaging when used in outdoor activities.
Innovation Solution
A portable container with a modular design featuring a differential height configuration, tow bar junction, and large wheels for increased ground clearance, allowing for both towing and improved portability over uneven terrain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the wheel size is increased to improve terrain traversal capability, then ground clearance and rough terrain performance are improved, but the overall size of the container increases without additional storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into two distinct functional segments: the storage compartment (body) and the transport mechanism (wheel assembly with handle). This segmentation allows the wheel assembly to be optimized for terrain traversal with larger wheels and extended handle, while the storage compartment maintains its compact, space-efficient form factor. The transport segment can be detached or folded when not needed, preventing permanent increase in storage volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport handle extends in the vertical dimension rather than increasing the horizontal footprint of the container. When collapsed, the handle integrates into the vertical profile without protruding significantly beyond the container's main body dimensions. This allows improved ergonomics and terrain clearance without sacrificing storage capacity or increasing the container's base footprint.
2Ease of operation
If the container weight is reduced to improve portability, then ease of transport is improved, but structural strength and durability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The container employs composite construction combining lightweight materials (such as plastic or aluminum alloy) for the body and lid, with strategic use of reinforcement materials at stress points. The insulation layer serves dual purposes: thermal performance and structural rigidity. This composite approach reduces overall weight compared to traditional solid metal construction while maintaining necessary strength through material properties and structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
The container structure applies different material properties and thicknesses to different regions based on local requirements. High-stress areas such as the handle attachment points, wheel mounting regions, and corner reinforcements use thicker or more robust materials, while large flat surfaces use thinner, lighter materials. This localized optimization reduces overall weight while maintaining structural integrity where needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If towing capabilities are added to enable vehicle attachment, then transport versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a manual pull handle for person-powered transport, a tow bar for vehicle attachment, and potentially a lifting point. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate towing hardware, hooks, or attachment mechanisms, thereby adding versatility without proportionally increasing structural complexity. The same structural elements support both manual and motorized transport modes.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments relate to a multi-purpose insulated container. The container is comprised of a plurality of walls forming an enclosure. A lid is in communication with the body and is operable so as to enclose the container. A first wall is oppositely disposed from a second wall and the height of the first wall is greater than the height of the second wall. A base is provided and a third wall extends from the base to the second wall; the third wall having a gradient with respect to the base due to the height differential between the first wall and the second wall. A first wheel is positioned adjacent to the first side wall and a second wheel is positioned adjacent to the second side wall; the two wheels sharing an axis of rotation.