Non-Rigid Insulating Cooler with Waterproof Closure and Aerogel Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable coolers lack effective insulation and waterproof closure systems, leading to temperature retention issues and leakage, which compromises the storage of food and beverages.
Innovation Solution
A non-rigid insulating device with a waterproof closure, featuring a floating insulating layer between an outer shell and inner liner, and a waterproof storage compartment, utilizing materials like TPU-coated nylon and NBR/PVC foam for enhanced insulation and structural integrity, along with a zipper assembly that maintains a watertight seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a non-rigid portable cooler design is used to maximize portability, then ease of transport is improved, but insulation effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible materials including TPU-coated nylon fabric for the outer shell and inner liner, allowing the cooler to be folded and compressed for portable storage while maintaining structural integrity. This flexible shell design enables the non-rigid cooler to retain portability advantages while providing sufficient thermal insulation through the flexible material layers and trapped air pockets.
2Temperature
If a closure system is added to seal the aperture for temperature retention, then insulation effectiveness is improved, but waterproofing capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system integrates multiple materials with complementary properties: TPU-coated nylon fabric provides both thermal insulation and water resistance, while the waterproof zipper assembly with laminated tape seal ensures watertight closure. The combination of these composite materials allows the aperture to be effectively sealed for temperature retention while maintaining reliable waterproofing capability.
3Strength
If rigid materials are used for cooler construction to improve structural integrity, then strength is improved, but portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes flexible TPU-coated nylon fabric for both the outer shell and inner liner, eliminating rigid structural components while maintaining sufficient strength through the tensile properties of the coated fabric. This flexible shell construction allows the cooler to be folded, compressed, and easily transported without compromising structural integrity during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooler is divided into separate modular components including the outer shell, inner liner, insulation layer, and closure system that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for flexibility and portability while collectively providing the necessary structural integrity when assembled together.
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 solution effectively maintains temperature for extended periods and prevents leakage, ensuring that contents remain cool or warm while being portable and easy to access, with the insulating device capable of withstanding inversion and varying orientations.
Implementation Method 1
an insulating layer (502) positioned between the inner liner (500) and the outer shell (501)
Implementation Method 2
a closure (301) that seals the opening (512) formed through the outer shell (501) and the inner liner (500)
Data Source
AI summary
An insulating device can include a body assembly and a lid assembly where an insulating layer and aerogel structure is connected to both the body assembly and the lid assembly. An aperture with a closure is formed between the body assembly and lid assembly to form a storage compartment. The insulating layer and aerogel structure on the lid assembly may extend beyond the closure when the closure is sealed. The insulating layer and aerogel structure on the lid assembly may have an insulating ring and aerogel ring structure that has an increased thickness around its perimeter.