Insulated Cooler Structure With Waterproof Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable coolers lack effective insulation and waterproof closure systems, leading to temperature retention issues and liquid leakage when inverted or exposed to water.
Innovation Solution
A non-rigid insulating device with a waterproof closure, comprising an outer shell, an inner liner, and a free-floating insulating layer made of foam, secured by polymer welding and adhesives, ensuring a watertight seal and maintaining temperature for extended periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a non-rigid portable cooler design is used to maximize portability, then ease of transport is improved, but temperature retention and structural integrity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the inner liner is positioned within the outer shell, and the insulating layer is sandwiched between them. This nested arrangement allows the cooler to maintain its non-rigid, portable form while incorporating sufficient insulation thickness to retain temperature effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by combining multiple materials with different properties: the outer shell provides structural protection, the insulating layer (such as foam) provides thermal insulation, and the inner liner provides waterproofing. This composite approach enables the cooler to be both portable and thermally effective.
2Reliability
If a waterproof closure system is implemented to prevent liquid leakage, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a flexible waterproof liner made of laminated material that forms a continuous barrier throughout the cooler interior. This thin film approach provides comprehensive waterproofing without requiring complex rigid sealing mechanisms, maintaining reliability while minimizing added complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the insulating layer is allowed to float freely between the outer shell and inner liner, then ease of manufacture is improved, but insulation effectiveness may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent allows the insulating layer to move dynamically within the cooler cavity rather than being rigidly fixed. This dynamic positioning simplifies manufacturing and assembly while the layer maintains contact with the contents and walls during use, ensuring continuous insulation effectiveness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device effectively keeps contents cool or warm for an extended period while preventing liquid leakage, even when inverted, due to its robust insulation and waterproof design, maintaining temperature retention and structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
an insulating layer floating freely in between the outer shell and the inner liner
Implementation Method 2
a waterproof closure... secured by polymer welding and adhesives, ensuring a watertight seal
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a shell defining a first side and a second side, wherein the shell is formed from a one-piece integral structure, wherein the one-piece integral structure is joined together to form a seam, and wherein the seam is on one of the second side or the first side, a storage compartment, and an opening configured to provide access to the storage compartment.