Insulating Container with Waterproof Closure for Leak Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable coolers lack effective insulation and waterproofing, leading to temperature retention issues and liquid leakage, especially when inverted or subjected to pressure.
Innovation Solution
A portable insulating device with a waterproof closure, an outer shell, an inner liner, and a freely 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 container is designed with an aperture for access, then ease of operation is improved, but waterproofing capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The closure is equipped with a waterproof coating applied in advance before use. This preliminary protective measure ensures that when the closure seals the aperture, it provides reliable waterproofing while still allowing easy access when opened
Solution Approach 2:
The closure material's surface properties are modified through waterproof coating, changing its hydrophobicity parameter. This allows the closure to transition between providing easy access (when open) and reliable waterproofing (when closed)
2Strength
If the insulating layer is secured to the outer shell and inner liner, then structural integrity is improved, but the insulating layer cannot adjust to pressure changes
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating layer has different local properties: regions adjacent to the closure are secured to maintain structural integrity, while the central region remains free-floating to adjust to pressure changes. This spatial differentiation of attachment properties resolves the contradiction between strength and adaptability
3Reliability
If the closure is made waterproof with coating, then waterproofing capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure utilizes a porous or absorbent material structure that naturally facilitates waterproof coating application. The porous nature of the material allows the waterproof coating to penetrate and bond effectively, improving waterproofing capability while keeping the manufacturing process relatively simple
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, and withstands pressure up to 7 psi above atmospheric pressure, maintaining temperature retention and structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The closure can include a waterproof coating that prevents liquid from penetrating through the closure
Implementation Method 2
an insulating layer floating freely in between the outer shell and the inner liner
Data Source
AI summary
An insulating device can include an aperture having a waterproof closure which allows access to the chamber within the insulating device. The closure can help prevent any fluid leakage into and out of the insulating device if the insulating device is overturned or in any configuration other than upright. The closure also prevents any fluid from permeating into the chamber if the insulating device is exposed to precipitation, other fluid, or submersed under water. This construction results in an insulating chamber impervious to water and other liquids when the closure is sealed.