Food-Cooling Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food cooling methods, such as traditional coolers with ice, are inefficient and prone to waterlogging, making it difficult to maintain food at a consistent temperature for extended periods, especially in scenarios without access to electrical appliances.
Innovation Solution
A portable food-cooling device with a body made of insulating material, adjustable cooling elements, a removable inner body, and a lid, powered by a battery and controlled via a touchscreen or mobile application, allowing for consistent temperature control and remote operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If traditional coolers with ice are used, then food can be kept cool temporarily, but the food becomes waterlogged and the device requires frequent packing and unpacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from passive ice cooling to active electronic temperature control. The cooling element with adjustable temperature settings allows precise control of cooling parameters, maintaining food at optimal temperatures without the waterlogging issues of traditional ice coolers. The timer function further refines parameter control by automating cooling duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical ice-based cooling system with an electronic cooling system. Instead of relying on phase change of ice and manual packing operations, the device uses an electronically controlled cooling element that can be adjusted and timed, eliminating the need for frequent manual intervention and preventing food waterlogging.
2Temperature
If traditional coolers with ice are used, then food can be kept cool, but the device requires frequent manual packing and unpacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through the timer function that automatically controls the cooling element's operation duration. Users set the timer once, and the system autonomously manages the cooling cycles without requiring frequent manual packing and unpacking operations, significantly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the cooling system adaptable through adjustable temperature settings and timer configurations. The system can dynamically adjust its operation based on user needs and environmental conditions, transforming from a static ice cooler to a flexible, user-controlled cooling device.
3Temperature
If traditional coolers with ice are used, then food can be kept cool temporarily, but the device cannot maintain consistent temperature for extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action through the timer-controlled cooling element that can operate for extended periods. The system maintains continuous cooling action throughout the timer duration, ensuring consistent temperature maintenance for food over long periods without the intermittent effectiveness of traditional ice coolers.
4Temperature
If a cooling device with adjustable temperature and timer is created, then temperature control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a cooling device that performs multiple functions: temperature control, timing, and automatic operation management. The controller integrates these functions into a single device, allowing the system to serve as both a temperature regulator and a timer-controlled cooling system, justifying the increased complexity through enhanced functionality.
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 device effectively maintains food at a consistent temperature without waterlogging, providing a reliable cooling solution for extended periods without the need for electrical power sources.
Implementation Method 1
at least one cooling element... The cooling element's temperature is adjustable... maintains food at a consistent temperature
Implementation Method 2
a body made from insulating material
Data Source
AI summary
A food-cooling device is provided. The device is designed to maintain a consistent temperature for stored food and is comprised of a body made from insulating material, at least one cooling element, a removable inner body, and a lid. The cooling element's temperature is adjustable via controls on the body, which may include a touchscreen display or physical buttons, and can be preset for specific food types. Additionally, the device includes a timer for setting operational durations and can be controlled remotely through a mobile application that communicates wirelessly with the device, allowing users to select cooling temperatures and configure the timer. The device is powered by a battery, which can be either removable or non-removable and is capable of being recharged or powered directly from a power source.