Multi-Function Cooler With Spigot Dispensing for Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coolers face challenges in maintaining temperature control when accessing items inside, as exposing the internal compartment to the external environment disrupts the temperature, and existing designs often hinder convenient access and stability when using accessories.
Innovation Solution
A cooler design featuring a lid structure coupled to a base structure with a spigot system that allows liquid communication without opening the cooler, along with corner-mounted accessories and enhanced insulation, enabling temperature maintenance and easy access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lid structure is opened to access items in the internal compartment, then accessibility to items is improved, but temperature control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cooler is divided into separate functional components: a base structure with ice compartment, an removable insert structure with beverage containers, and a lid structure. This segmentation allows the insert to be removed for access without opening the lid, maintaining temperature control while providing item accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
A spigot system acts as an intermediary mechanism between the beverage containers and the external environment. The spigot allows liquid dispensation without opening the cooler, and a snorkel assembly provides air intake for the beverage containers without requiring lid opening, thus maintaining thermal isolation.
2Temperature
If a spigot system is added for liquid dispensation without opening, then temperature control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spigot assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a liquid dispensing mechanism, provides structural support for the beverage containers, and integrates with the snorkel assembly for air intake. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spigot assembly is merged with the snorkel assembly and the beverage container support structure. The spigot passes through the base structure and integrates with the insert structure, combining multiple functions into a single integrated component rather than separate parts.
3Adaptability or versatility
If accessories are mounted on the cooler, then versatility is improved, but stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Accessories are mounted on removable feet that can be attached to the base structure or removed entirely. This segmentation allows accessory mounting capability while maintaining the option to remove accessories if stability becomes an issue, as the feet can be detached from the cooler body.
Solution Approach 2:
The feet are pre-configured with mounting mechanisms (such as holes or attachment points) that allow accessories to be securely mounted before use. This preliminary preparation ensures that accessories are properly positioned and secured, minimizing their impact on cooler stability during operation.
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 cooler effectively maintains temperature control while allowing liquid dispensation without opening and provides stable accessory mounting, improving usability and accessibility compared to prior designs.
Implementation Method 1
insulating containers or devices are configured to reduce a rate of heat transfer through one or more surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
An insulated container having an internal chamber, a second container received within the internal chamber, a spigot assembly extending through a passageway through a wall of the insulated container and removably coupled to the second container, the spigot assembly being in fluid communication with the second container for dispensing liquid out of the insulated container.