Soft Cooler Waterproof Closure for Leak-Free Thermal Insulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable coolers lack effective insulation and waterproof closure systems, leading to temperature retention issues and liquid leakage, especially when inverted or subjected to pressure.
Innovation Solution
A non-rigid insulating device with a waterproof closure, comprising an outer shell, an inner liner, and a freely floating insulating layer made of foam, secured by polymer welding and adhesives, with a zipper assembly that maintains a watertight seal up to 7 psi above atmospheric pressure, and reinforced handles for portability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a non-rigid container design is used to maximize portability, then ease of transport is improved, but structural strength and temperature retention deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cooler combines multiple materials with complementary properties: an outer shell made of durable polyester or nylon fabric, an inner liner made of food-grade polyethylene or polypropylene, and closed-cell foam insulation. This composite structure provides both the flexibility needed for portability and the thermal insulation required for temperature retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible fabric outer shells and thin film inner liners that can bend and conform during transport, yet maintain structural integrity. The flexible nature of these shells allows the cooler to be collapsed or compressed for easy storage and carrying, while still providing effective thermal insulation when in use.
2Ease of operation
If a non-rigid container design is used to maximize portability, then ease of transport is improved, but resistance to external pressure and deformation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The combination of high-denier polyester or nylon outer fabric with rigid closed-cell foam insulation creates a composite structure that resists external pressure. The foam core provides structural support while the fabric outer shell distributes applied forces, allowing the flexible cooler to withstand stacking and handling pressures.
Solution Approach 2:
The closed-cell foam insulation acts as a pre-compressed cushioning layer that protects the cooler contents and structure from external pressure before pressure is applied. The foam's cellular structure absorbs and distributes impact forces, preventing deformation of the cooler body during transport or stacking.
3Ease of operation
If a simple aperture closure is used for easy access, then ease of operation is improved, but waterproofing capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inner liner is constructed from food-grade polyethylene or polypropylene thin films that are inherently waterproof and chemically inert. This flexible yet impermeable liner lines the entire interior including the closure area, ensuring that simple access mechanisms do not compromise the waterproof integrity of the container.
Solution Approach 2:
The waterproof closure system acts as an intermediary barrier between the interior and exterior environments. It includes waterproof zippers, roll-top seals, or snap closures with gaskets that maintain the waterproof seal while allowing controlled access to contents, preventing water ingress even when the cooler is inverted or subjected to pressure.
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 contents at desired temperatures for extended periods and prevents liquid leakage, even when inverted, with a heat gain rate of approximately 1.4°F/hr and the ability to withstand 200 lbs of weight for 3 minutes without failure.
Implementation Method 1
an insulating layer made of a closed-cell foam that provides insulation between an interior of the cooler and an exterior of the cooler
Implementation Method 2
The closure can be a watertight zipper assembly that is watertight up to 7 psi above atmospheric pressure
Data Source
AI summary
An insulating device can include an aperture having a waterproof closure which allows access to the chamber within the insulating device. The closure can help prevent any fluid leakage into and out of the insulating device if the insulating device is overturned or in any configuration other than upright. The closure also prevents any fluid from permeating into the chamber if the insulating device is exposed to precipitation, other fluid, or submersed under water. This construction results in an insulating chamber impervious to water and other liquids when the closure is sealed.