Magnetic Patch Connection for Drinkware Stability on Coolers
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a simple, cost-effective solution to securely hold drinkware during active outdoor sports without spillage or loss, particularly on structures like coolers and inflatable watercraft, where traditional solutions are bulky or lack means to stabilize drinkware.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic patch system using a permanent magnet and ferrous metal components, embedded in or attached to non-metallic surfaces, allows detachable coupling of drinkware and other objects, utilizing strong magnets to resist unintentional forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical mounting methods are used to secure drinkware on coolers or watercraft, then the drinkware can be held securely, but the device becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical mounting structures with a magnetic field-based attachment system. A permanent magnet embedded in the cooler or watercraft surface creates magnetic attraction forces that securely hold ferrous metal drinkware without requiring mechanical fasteners, clips, or complex mounting mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining reliable drinkware stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state or property utilized for attachment from mechanical interlocking to magnetic field interaction. By utilizing magnetic field strength as the attachment parameter instead of mechanical engagement, the system achieves secure drinkware holding with minimal structural complexity, allowing the magnet to be embedded directly into the surface without additional mounting hardware.
2Reliability
If recessed cup holes are added to coolers to hold drinkware, then drinkware stability is improved, but the cooler becomes bulkier and more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the need for recessed cup holes with a magnetic attachment system. The permanent magnet embedded in the cooler surface creates magnetic attraction that holds ferrous metal drinkware securely without requiring physical recesses or cavities, thereby maintaining cooler compactness and portability while achieving reliable drinkware stability.
3Ease of manufacture
If magnetic patches are used to secure drinkware, then the solution is simple and cost-effective, but the magnetic force must be strong enough to resist unintentional forces during active sports
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite structure consisting of a permanent magnet embedded in a non-metallic material matrix. This composite construction allows the magnetic patch to be easily manufactured and attached to cooler or watercraft surfaces while the embedded magnet provides sufficient holding force to resist unintentional forces during active outdoor sports, balancing manufacturing simplicity with adequate magnetic strength.
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 magnetic patch system effectively secures drinkware and other items to non-ferrous surfaces, ensuring stability during outdoor activities, while being easy to retrofit or integrate into existing designs.
Implementation Method 1
uses the influence of a magnetic field to detachably couple drinkware, where a ferrous metal and a permanent magnet work together
Implementation Method 2
a ferrous metal and a permanent magnet work together in complementary fashion to achieve a fast, but breakable connection
Data Source
AI summary
Two articles, such as a cooler and an article of drinkware, are magnetically coupled to each other by interaction of a magnet disposed in a patch, which is adhesively bonded to the cooler, and a ferrous metal element disposed in the article of drinkware. The patch includes shell made of plastic material, and an adhesive layer is activated by removing a peel and stick sheet. Two patches can be provided, one with a magnet and one with a ferrous metal element, in situations where both the cooler and the drinkware are without magnetic elements.