Portable Cooler with Modular Refrigeration for Remote Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current refrigeration systems are not suitable for remote or temporary use, particularly for hunters and caterers, as they are difficult to transport and power, and often inefficient for smaller volumes, leading to spoilage of perishable goods.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible and portable cooler system with telescoping support poles, a foldable base, and an optional refrigeration unit that can be powered by various means, allowing for flexible deployment and integration with existing cooling systems, and featuring antimicrobial walls to prevent spoilage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional refrigeration devices are used, then cooling function is provided, but portability and ease of transport are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigeration system is divided into separate modular components: a portable refrigeration unit that can be detached from the storage container. This allows the cooling function to be transported independently or left behind, while the storage container remains portable. The system can operate with or without the refrigeration unit attached.
Solution Approach 2:
An insulated storage container serves as an intermediary between the refrigeration unit and the stored items. The container maintains temperature through insulation even when detached from power, extending the cooling capability without requiring continuous power or large refrigeration equipment at the storage location.
2Volume of stationary object
If large refrigeration systems are deployed, then sufficient storage volume is provided, but device complexity and transport difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the refrigeration unit from the storage container, allowing each to be optimized independently. The storage container can be any size and shape needed for the application, while the refrigeration unit remains a manageable, portable size. They connect when needed but can be separated for transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The system configuration is dynamic rather than fixed. The refrigeration unit can be attached to or detached from the storage container based on operational needs. The container can be transported with or without the refrigeration unit, and the system adapts to different storage volume requirements without changing the fundamental portable design.
3Reliability
If refrigeration units are used in remote locations, then cooling is maintained, but power availability becomes a limiting factor
Solution Approach 1:
The insulated storage container acts as a thermal intermediary that stores cooling capacity and maintains temperature without continuous power input. It bridges the gap between intermittent refrigeration unit operation and continuous temperature maintenance needs in remote locations without power infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The refrigeration unit is used in advance to pre-cool the storage container and its contents before detachment. The container is prepared with sufficient ice or cold storage capacity beforehand, allowing it to maintain temperature autonomously during periods when the refrigeration unit cannot operate or is transported separately.
4Temperature
If fixed refrigeration systems are used, then consistent temperature control is achieved, but adaptability to different locations and volumes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a portable refrigeration unit and a separate storage container that can be used independently or together. This allows the same refrigeration unit to serve multiple locations and applications by simply transporting it with different containers, rather than installing fixed systems at each location.
Solution Approach 2:
The refrigeration unit is designed as a universal, multi-functional device that can be attached to various storage containers of different sizes and configurations. The same unit can serve hunting camps, outdoor events, remote work locations, or temporary storage needs, adapting to different volumes and locations without requiring site-specific installation.
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 system provides a reliable and efficient means to maintain perishable items at the correct temperature, reducing spoilage and accommodating varying needs through scalable storage volumes and temperature control, suitable for remote locations and events.
Implementation Method 1
The storage volume receives cold air from the refrigeration unit
Implementation Method 2
The support poles support walls that may be made of a rigid insulating material, a compliant curtain, a bag, or fabric that maintains the temperature of air within the storage volume
Data Source
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AI summary
A portable cooler is provided that includes a base that supports a refrigeration unit. The base also supports a plurality of upwardly-extending support poles that accommodate a top portion. The support poles, top portion, and base define a food storage volume that is surrounded by a plurality of insulative walls.