Modular Cooler Coupling Design for Expandable Dry-Wet Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermal containers, or coolers, face challenges in maintaining temperature regulation due to frequent opening of the lid, lack of compatibility for various applications, and limited expandability and functionality, making them difficult to transport and secure.
Innovation Solution
A modular cooler system that includes expandable capacity, dry and wet insulated compartments, accessories like fishing rod holders, cup holders, seating, and dolly attachments, allowing for secure transportation and increased functionality by connecting multiple boxes with interchangeable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional coolers are made larger to provide more storage capacity, then storage volume increases, but weight and difficulty of transport increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cooler system is divided into multiple separate cooler boxes of different sizes that can be used individually or combined. This allows users to select only the size needed for each occasion, reducing unnecessary weight while maintaining the option for larger capacity when multiple boxes are connected together.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional coolers are designed for specific applications, then functionality for that application improves, but adaptability to other applications decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooler boxes are designed with universal connection features and standardized interfaces that allow them to be combined in various configurations for different applications. The same basic cooler unit can serve multiple purposes whether used alone or connected to form larger storage systems, eliminating the need for multiple specialized coolers.
3Reliability
If conventional coolers are made secure and stable, then reliability during transport improves, but ease of assembly and disassembly decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system uses dynamic coupling mechanisms that provide secure locking when connected but allow easy release when needed. The interlocking features automatically engage to ensure stability during transport, while the design incorporates simple release mechanisms that enable quick assembly and disassembly without complex tools or procedures.
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 modular design enhances temperature maintenance, provides versatile usage for different applications, and simplifies transportation through secure and easy rolling, addressing the limitations of traditional coolers.
Implementation Method 1
dry and wet insulated compartments
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary modular cooler system is provided that includes couplings that may, in one embodiment, be implemented as integrated or interfaced receptacles and corresponding inserts that allow accessory items to couple with an insulated compartment, which may be referred to as a “wet box”, and used as an insulated cooler that holds ice. The accessories may include, for example, a second compartment or “dry box” for holding items that need to be kept dry, a fishing rod holder, a shelf, a cutting board, a cup holder, a chair or seating platform, one or more dollies, or virtually any needed accessory. In one embodiment the thermal properties of the insulated compartment are enhanced with the use of one or more radiant barrier members, such as one positioned adjacent the lid of the insulated compartment.