Waterproof Soft Cooler Closure for Leak-Free Temperature Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable coolers lack effective insulation and waterproof closure mechanisms, leading to temperature retention issues and liquid leakage when inverted or exposed to water.
Innovation Solution
A non-rigid insulating device with a waterproof closure, comprising an outer shell, an inner liner, and a free-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 insulating device is designed for portability with an aperture closure, then ease of operation and portability are improved, but waterproof performance and temperature retention are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible waterproof closure system consisting of an outer closure member and an inner closure member that can flex and conform to each other. The closure members are made of flexible materials that allow the aperture to be opened and closed easily while maintaining a waterproof seal when closed, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and waterproof performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested closure structure where an inner closure member is positioned within an outer closure member. The inner closure member fits inside the outer closure member, creating a dual-layer sealing system that enhances waterproof performance while maintaining portability through the flexible, compact design.
2Ease of operation
If a non-rigid insulating device is designed for portability with an aperture closure, then ease of operation and portability are improved, but temperature retention is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes composite insulation structures combining multiple materials with different thermal properties. The insulation layer is positioned between the outer shell and inner liner, creating a composite wall structure that provides superior thermal resistance while allowing the overall device to remain flexible and portable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enhances temperature retention by adding dimensional complexity to the wall structure through multiple layers (outer shell, insulation layer, inner liner) rather than relying on single thick walls. This multi-layer approach provides thermal resistance while maintaining flexibility and portability.
3Temperature
If the insulating device uses a multi-layer structure with insulation layer between outer shell and inner liner, then temperature retention is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the insulating device into distinct functional segments: an outer shell providing structural support, an insulation layer for thermal resistance, and an inner liner for waterproofing. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently while simplifying the overall manufacturing process through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible shell structures for both the outer shell and inner liner that can be formed from flexible materials. This flexibility allows the multi-layer structure to be manufactured more easily and assembled without rigid joining processes, reducing manufacturing complexity despite the multiple layers.
4Reliability
If the closure system is designed to be waterproof with inner and outer closure members, then waterproof performance is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing precision are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the closure members, specifically their flexibility and conformability, to achieve waterproof sealing. The closure members are designed to flex and adapt to each other's contours, eliminating the need for extremely precise manufacturing tolerances while maintaining effective waterproof seals.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of relying on rigid, precisely manufactured sealing surfaces, the patent inverts the approach by using flexible materials that can deform and conform to create the seal. This reversal of the traditional sealing approach reduces manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining waterproof performance.
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, while providing structural integrity and ease of carrying.
Implementation Method 1
an insulating layer in between the outer shell and the inner liner
Implementation Method 2
a waterproof closure (2)
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.