Modular Accessory Rail System for Portable Coolers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable food coolers lack the ability to easily attach modular accessories, limiting their functionality and versatility.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating accessory mounting rails on the exterior of the cooler, allowing for the attachment of various accessories such as rod holders, umbrellas, canopies, shade covers, tables, cutting boards, wheels, storage containers, pouches, bags, drink holders, leveling struts, extendable legs, handles, and a cradle system, as well as seats and a sound system, using secure mounting assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If accessory mounting rails are added to the cooler, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting rail system serves multiple functions: it provides attachment points for various accessories (seats, cup holders, speakers, canopies) and acts as a structural reinforcement element for the cooler lid. This multi-functional design allows a single added component to enable accessory attachment while also potentially strengthening the overall structure, thereby improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mounting assemblies are incorporated for accessory attachment, then adaptability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory system is divided into separate modular components: the mounting rails are pre-installed on the cooler, and accessories are attached using separate mounting assemblies that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows the cooler body to be produced independently, then equipped with mounting rails, and finally have accessories attached as needed, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting rails are pre-installed on the cooler during the main manufacturing process, preparing the structure in advance for accessory attachment. This preliminary action eliminates the need to modify the cooler structure at the point of accessory installation, thereby simplifying the overall manufacturing process while enabling modular accessory integration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple accessories are attached to the cooler, then functionality is improved, but weight of moving object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory mounting system enables a dynamic configuration where accessories can be attached or removed based on specific needs. Users can attach only the accessories required for a particular outing (e.g., seats for camping, cup holders for picnics, speakers for parties) and remove them when not needed, allowing the cooler's weight to adapt to the actual functional requirements rather than always carrying maximum potential weight.
Data Source
AI summary
A closure mechanism for locking a lid of a storage receptacle, such as a portable cooler, in a closed position. The closure mechanism includes an elongated rail attached to an outer surface of the storage receptacle. The closure mechanism further includes a flexible member having a first end fixedly attached to the lid of the storage receptacle. Disposed on the second end of the flexible member is a catch having a first tab and a second tab. The first tab and the second tab are each configured and dimensioned to selectively engage channels in the elongated rail.