Waterproof Soft Cooler Closure for Leak-Free Insulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable coolers lack effective insulation and waterproofing, 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 insulation effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple materials with different properties: an outer shell material for flexibility and portability, an insulating layer material for thermal insulation, and a liner material for waterproofing. This composite structure allows the cooler to maintain both portability and insulation effectiveness by leveraging the strengths of each material type working together.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible materials for the outer shell and liner that can conform to various shapes and withstand compression when carried, while maintaining the structural integrity needed for insulation. The flexible nature allows the cooler to be compressed during transport yet retain its insulating properties when in use.
2Temperature
If a rigid container structure is used to improve insulation, then temperature retention is improved, but portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple materials with different properties: an outer shell material for flexibility and portability, an insulating layer material for thermal insulation, and a liner material for waterproofing. This composite structure allows the cooler to maintain both portability and insulation effectiveness by leveraging the strengths of each material type working together.
3Reliability
If a waterproof closure is added to prevent liquid leakage, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible materials for the outer shell and liner that can conform to various shapes and withstand compression when carried, while maintaining the structural integrity needed for insulation. The flexible nature allows the cooler to be compressed during transport yet retain its insulating properties when in use.
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 degF/hr and the ability to withstand 200 lbs of weight for 3 minutes without failure.
Implementation Method 1
an insulating layer (502) floating freely in between the inner liner and the outer shell
Implementation Method 2
a waterproof closure (301) that maintains a watertight seal 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.