Snap-fit cooler box
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cooler boxes require complex assembly methods using screws, leading to misalignment issues, increased assembly time, and water leakage when the inner shell is filled.
Innovation Solution
A snap-fit cooler box design featuring inner and outer snap-fit components that allow for easy assembly without screws, ensuring proper alignment and preventing water leakage, along with a secure handle attachment mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screws are used to assemble the outer shell, inner shell and insulating material, then the components can be firmly connected, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming, and misalignment occurs during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the screws from the assembly system and replaces them with snap-fit components integrated directly into the inner shell and outer shell. This extraction of the fastening element simplifies the assembly process while maintaining connection firmness through the elastic deformation and locking mechanism of the snap-fit hooks and blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fit components are designed to self-align and self-lock during assembly. The guide surfaces on the snap-fit hooks automatically align with the snap-fit blocks as the inner shell is inserted into the outer shell, eliminating the need for manual alignment or additional fastening operations. The elastic deformation of the hooks provides self-adjusting connection.
2Reliability
If screws are used to assemble the components, then the components can be firmly connected, but assembly time increases due to alignment requirements and potential disassembly/reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-fit components are pre-formed during the molding process of the inner shell and outer shell. The hooks and blocks are integrated into the shell structures beforehand, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps. During final assembly, the pre-formed snap-fit features automatically engage when the inner shell is inserted into the outer shell, significantly reducing assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the screw-threaded mechanical connection system with an elastic snap-fit mechanism. The connection is achieved through elastic deformation of the snap-fit hooks as they engage with the snap-fit blocks, providing firm connection without the complex threading and tightening operations required by screws.
3Reliability
If screws are used for assembly, then components can be connected, but water leaks from the inner shell to the outer shell along the screw paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the screws that created leakage paths from the assembly system. By eliminating the screw holes and threaded connections, the continuous barrier between the inner shell and outer shell is maintained, preventing water from penetrating along the fastening paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fit components are designed with elastic hooks that can deform and conform to the mating surfaces. This flexibility allows the snap-fit connection to maintain intimate contact and seal against water penetration, unlike rigid screw connections that create gaps and leakage paths.
4Ease of operation
If traditional assembly methods are used, then components can be connected, but the handle may detach when swung relative to the shell
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed with a dynamic snap-fit connection that allows controlled movement. The handle can be swung relative to the shell for convenient operation, but the snap-fit mechanism with guide surfaces and elastic deformation provides automatic alignment and secure locking during movement, preventing detachment while maintaining mobility.
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
Facilitates quicker and more reliable assembly of cooler boxes, preventing water leakage and ensuring the handle remains attached during use.
Implementation Method 1
each of the inner snap-fit components includes two inner snapping hooks that can snap into each other... each of the inner snapping hooks includes an inner pillaring body and an inner buckling body extending from the inner pillaring body... the inner buckling body of one of the inner snapping hooks contacts the another inner buckling body of the other of the inner snapping hooks, the inner pillaring body of the inner snapping hooks will deformed along two opposite directions at the same time
Data Source
AI summary
A snap-fit cooler box includes an outer shell, an inner shell, a plurality of inner snap-fit components, a plurality of outer snap-fit components, an insulating material and a cover. A closing end and an opening end are respectively formed on opposite sides of the outer shell; a container and a connecting flange are disposed on the inner shell. The inner snap-fit components are disposed between the closing end and the container, the outer snap-fit components are disposed between the opening end and the connecting flange. The inner and outer snap-fit components are used for allowing the inner shell to snap into the outer shell without using screws or nails. Therefore, the inner shell will not leak internal water to the exterior of the outer shell.