COOLER WITH SLIDING BIFURCATED OUTER LID AND REMOVABLE SLIDING INNER TRAY

Abstract

A cooler comprising a plurality of interconnected sidewalls defining an internal cavity for storing items therein; a bifurcated outer lid operatively connected to a left and right sidewall of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls and configured to move in a linear direction to open and close the bifurcated outer lid; and a removable inner tray operatively connected to the left and right sidewalls of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls and configured to move in a linear direction, or to be lifted and removed. The removable inner tray is arranged as a partition between the internal cavity and bifurcated outer lid when the removable inner tray is in a closed position.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/743,973 filed January 10, 2025 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of coolers, and more particularly, to coolers having openable and closable outer and inner trays that allow for the uppermost surfaces (e.g., top) of the cooler to increase its usable footprint when the outer lid is in an open position.

BACKGROUND

Conventional portable coolers typically employ a single, upwardly hinged lid that rotates about a rear hinge line to access an internal cavity. This lid architecture commonly requires substantial vertical clearance behind or above the cooler, which can be impractical in vehicles, boats, crowded outdoor settings, and other confined environments. When opened, the hinged lid also removes the cooler top surface from use and can create an unstable or obstructive surface adjacent the cooler, thereby reducing available workspace for food preparation, drink placement, or accessory support. Many existing cooler lids further provide limited modularity for partial access, partitioning, or retaining a clean separation between a primary ice compartment and an upper storage region. In addition, conventional removable trays often require complete lid opening for access, shift or rattle during transport, or interfere with closure, and they are frequently not coordinated with the lid motion in a manner that preserves user access and surface usability. These constraints can reduce convenience, increase the likelihood of spills or contamination, and limit the ability of a cooler to function as a stable tabletop while in use.

Accordingly, there remains a need for cooler configurations that increase usable uppermost surface footprint during access while maintaining compact operation in constrained spaces. In particular, there is a need for cooler systems that provide an outer lid that translates in a linear direction to open and close, rather than rotating as a unit about a hinge axis, thereby reducing clearance requirements and preserving adjacent space.

SUMMARY

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a cooler includes: (a) a plurality of interconnected sidewalls defining an internal cavity for storing items therein; (b) a bifurcated outer lid operatively connected to the left and right sidewalls of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls to move in a linear direction to open and close the bifurcated outer lid; and (c) a removable inner tray operatively connected to the left and right sidewalls of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls to move in a linear direction arranged as a partition between the internal cavity and the bifurcated outer lid when the removable inner tray is in a closed position.

In aspects, the bifurcated outer lid may move along the same linear direction to open and close (when opening and closing) the outer lid.

In aspects, the removable inner tray may be configured to stay in a stationary position as the bifurcated outer lid moves to open and close.

In aspects, the bifurcated outer lid may include a first portion connected to a second portion by a hinge.

In aspects, the first portion of the bifurcated outer lid may be configured to rotate about an axis (A1) from a co-planar position relative to the second portion of the bifurcated outer lid to a perpendicular position relative to the second portion of the bifurcated outer lid. When the first portion of the bifurcated outer lid is rotated such that it is perpendicular relative to the second portion of the bifurcated outer lid, the bifurcated outer lid may be “L” shaped when viewed from the side or in cross-section. When the first and second portions of the bifurcated outer lid are co-planar relative to each other, the bifurcated outer lid may be substantially flat and/or planar.

In aspects, the removable inner tray may include a substantially planar surface with a recessed portion defining a finger hole to facilitate removal.

In aspects, the cooler may further include glide paths internally positioned within the left and right sidewalls of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls in which each glide path assembly is operatively connected to the bifurcated outer lid by a glide pin and is configured to move the bifurcated outer lid in a linear direction to open and close.

In aspects, the lid may further include glide paths internally positioned within the left and right sidewalls of the lid, in which each glide path assembly is operatively connected to the cooler by a glide pin and is configured to move the bifurcated outer lid in a linear direction to open and close.

In aspects, the cooler may further include glide pins internally positioned within the left and right sidewalls of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls, in which each glide pin assembly is operatively connected to the lid by a glide path and is configured to move the bifurcated outer lid in a linear direction to open and close.

In aspects, the lid may further include glide pins internally positioned within the left and right sidewalls of the lid and is operatively connected to the cooler by a glide path and is configured to move the bifurcated outer lid in a linear direction to open and close.

In aspects, the cooler may further include a bottle opener fastened to the front sidewall of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls.

In aspects, the cooler may further include a strap handle attached to the right and left sidewalls of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls via a screw.

In aspects, the cooler may be configured to increase its usable uppermost surface footprint when the bifurcated outer lid is open and the removable inner tray is closed.

In aspects, the cooler may further include 3 recessed cup holders positioned within the second portion of the bifurcated outer lid.

In aspects, the bifurcated outer lid may include a hollow, recessed section located on its front portion. This recessed section is designed to facilitate the lifting and opening of the first portion of the bifurcated outer lid.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a cooler includes a plurality of interconnected sidewalls defining an internal cavity; a bifurcated outer lid coupled to the plurality of interconnected sidewalls and configured to translate relative to the plurality of interconnected sidewalls to move between a closed position and an open position; and a removable inner tray positionable within the internal cavity. The bifurcated outer lid is guided by cooperating glide components including: a glide path formed in the plurality of interconnected sidewalls; and a glide pin carried by the bifurcated outer lid, the glide pin being received within and guided by the glide path such that the bifurcated outer lid translates along a linear plane during opening and closing.

In aspects, the glide path may be positioned within each of a left sidewall and a right sidewall immediately beneath a rim formed by an uppermost portion of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls.

In aspects, the glide path may extend from a front sidewall toward a back sidewall and is substantially parallel to the rim.

In aspects, the glide path may include a slot configured to receive the glide pin to constrain the bifurcated outer lid to translational movement.

In aspects, the bifurcated outer lid may include a second portion having a substantially planar upper surface that remains in a same linear plane during opening and closing of the bifurcated outer lid.

In aspects, the bifurcated outer lid may include a recessed section on a front portion of the bifurcated outer lid configured for lifting and rotating a first portion of the bifurcated outer lid relative to a second portion.

In aspects, the cooler may further include a lift handle configured for lifting the bifurcated outer lid.

In aspects, the cooler may further include one or more feet positioned on or adjacent a bottom sidewall of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls to improve stability on uneven or compliant surfaces.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more or any combination of the above features and configurations.

Additional features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the present disclosure as described herein. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present various embodiments of the present disclosure, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the present disclosure as it is claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification.

Further details and aspects of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described in more detail below with reference to the appended figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present disclosure will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the present disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a cooler, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the cooler of FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the cooler of FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a back view of the cooler of FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a left side view of the cooler of FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a right side view of the cooler of FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the cooler of FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a top view of the cooler of FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 shows a bifurcated outer lid of the cooler of FIG. 1 in an open position, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 shows a removable inner tray of the cooler of FIG. 1 positioned within the cooler, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 11 shows a section of a left sidewall exposing a glide path of the cooler of FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates generally to coolers and, more particularly, to an easy-to-use cooler configured to increase its usable footprint when a bifurcated outer lid is in an open position and a removable inner tray is closed, the cooler including a plurality of interconnected sidewalls defining an internal cavity for storing items, the bifurcated outer lid operatively connected to left and right sidewalls and configured to move in a linear direction along a plane to open and close while remaining adjacent to the sidewalls, and the removable inner tray positioned within the internal cavity and configured to move in a linear direction and/or be lifted and removed, the removable inner tray arranged as a partition between the internal cavity and the bifurcated outer lid when closed and optionally configured to remain stationary as the bifurcated outer lid moves, wherein the bifurcated outer lid includes a first portion connected to a second portion by a hinge and the first portion is configured to rotate about an axis from a co-planar position relative to the second portion to a perpendicular position to form an L-shaped profile, and wherein the cooler can further include glide paths and glide pins internally positioned within the sidewalls to facilitate the linear movement, and one or more features including recessed cup holders, a bottle opener, a strap handle, a rim, rounded edges, and a recessed bottom portion for stability.

Although the present disclosure will be described in terms of specific examples, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in this art that various modifications, rearrangements, and substitutions may be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the novel features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the present disclosure as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 1-11 depict an easy-to-use cooler (100) configured to increase its usable footprint when a bifurcated outer lid (106) is in an open position and a removable inner tray (140) is closed, thereby providing increased and more usable surface area while the cooler is in use. In particular, FIGS. 1-11 depict the cooler (100) having: (a) a plurality of interconnected sidewalls (101, 102, 103, 104, 105) defining an internal cavity (150) for storing items therein; (b) a bifurcated outer lid (106) operatively connected to a left (102) and right (103) sidewall of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls to move in a linear direction (FIG. 9), by sliding or gliding along a plane instead of rotating about an axis, to open and close the bifurcated outer lid (106) while remaining adjacent to the left, right, and/or back sidewalls; and (c) a removable inner tray (140) positioned within the internal cavity, which can be easily removed when needed.

As shown, for example, in FIG. 9, the bifurcated outer lid (106) moves along the same linear plane to open and close the bifurcated outer lid (106). In particular, and instead of rotating about an axis to open an entire lid, the entire bifurcated outer lid (106) is configured to move along the same linear plane to open and close the entire bifurcated outer lid (106). As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the removable inner tray (140) is positioned within the cooler but is not mechanically linked to the bifurcated outer lid (106) movement.

In certain aspects, and as shown in FIGS. 9-11, directional arrows are provided to illustrate example directions of translational movement of the bifurcated outer lid (106) and the removable inner tray (140). For example, the bifurcated outer lid (106) is configured to translate rearward relative to the plurality of interconnected sidewalls (101, 102, 103, 104, 105) (e.g., toward the back sidewall (104)) along a linear plane during opening, and to translate forward (e.g., toward the front sidewall (101)) during closing. The removable inner tray (140) is configured to translate along a linear plane for partial withdrawal and access and, in addition, can be lifted upward and removed from the internal cavity (150) when desired. The arrows are provided for illustrative purposes to show one or more example directions of movement and are not intended to limit the orientation, travel distance, or specific glide geometry by which the bifurcated outer lid (106) and/or the removable inner tray (140) are configured to move.

Bifurcated outer lid (106) and the removable inner tray (140) have a unique configuration allowing for the bifurcated outer lid (106) to open and close independently of the tray. The removable inner tray (140) can be removed separately when desired, and it does not interfere with the opening or closing of the bifurcated outer lid (106). The bifurcated outer lid (106) includes three separate components, including a first portion (107) connected to a second portion (108) by a hinge (112). Regardless of whether the bifurcated outer lid (106) is open or closed, and as further shown in FIGS. 1 and 9-11, the second portion (108) of the bifurcated outer lid (106) always remains in the same plane. However, as shown in FIG. 10, the first portion (107) of the bifurcated outer lid (106) is configured to rotate about an axis (A1), formed by hinge (112), from a co-planar position relative to the second portion (108) of the bifurcated outer lid (106) to a perpendicular position (FIG. 10). Similar to the bifurcated outer lid (106) , as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the removable inner tray (140) remains stationary when the bifurcated outer lid (106) is opened or closed and does not need to be moved in unison with the bifurcated outer lid (106).

As shown in FIGS. 1-8, the plurality of interconnected sidewalls include a front sidewall (101) directly connected to a left sidewall (102), right sidewall (103), and bottom sidewall (105) as well as a back sidewall (104) directly connected to a left sidewall (102), right sidewall (103), and bottom sidewall (105). To provide a sleek appearance, the front, back, left, and right sidewalls are substantially planar with curved/rounded edges (114) that connect each of these sidewalls to one another. As further shown in FIG. 2, the bottom sidewall (105) may include a recessed portion (113) that imparts stability to the cooler depending on the surface (e.g., grass, sand, etc.) on which the cooler is placed. It should be noted that the uppermost portions of the front, back, right, and left sidewalls form a rim (115) (FIG. 3).

To achieve the above-described linear movement (i.e., movement in a linear direction), a glide path (117) is internally positioned in each of the left (102) and right (103) sidewalls immediately beneath the rim (115) with each glide path (117) being operatively connected to the bifurcated outer lid (106) thus allowing for selective linear movement of the bifurcated outer lid (106). As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, each glide path (117) guides a set of glide pins (116) that are parallel aligned with one another. As further shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the glide path (117) is parallel (or substantially parallel) to the uppermost portion (rim) of the sidewall (left sidewall (102) or right sidewall (103)) in which it is internally positioned, extending from the front (e.g., front sidewall (101)) of the cooler toward the back (e.g., back sidewall (104)) of the cooler. Each glide path has a slot formed therein to securely receive a single glide pin.

In certain aspects, and as shown in FIGS. 1-11, the cooler further includes a bottle opener (111) configured to the front sidewall (101) of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls.

As further shown in FIGS. 1-11, in certain embodiments, the cooler (100) includes a strap (110), attached to the right (103) and left (102) sidewalls of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls by a screw (118).

As further shown in FIGS. 1, 8, and 9-11, the cooler may further include a recessed cup holder (109) positioned within the bifurcated outer lid (106). In certain aspects, the cup holder (109) is positioned within the second portion (108) of the bifurcated outer lid (106).

As further shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 8-10, the cooler (100) can include a lid lift handle (119) coupled to the bifurcated outer lid (106) and configured to facilitate grasping and selectively lifting and/or rotating at least a portion of the bifurcated outer lid (106) to access items stored within the cooler (100), for example, without requiring full translation of the bifurcated outer lid (106). In certain aspects, and as shown in FIGS. 2 and 7, the cooler (100) can further include one or more feet (120) positioned on or adjacent the bottom sidewall (105), optionally in association with the recessed portion (113), to provide improved stability, reduce sliding, and promote consistent placement of the cooler (100) on uneven or compliant surfaces such as grass, sand, or boat decking.

The strap (110) can be formed from woven fabric, nylon webbing, leather, elastomeric material, or molded polymer, and the strap (110) can be attached to the left and right sidewalls (102, 103) using screws (118), rivets, bolts, or other fasteners. The lift handle (119) can be positioned on one or more of the sidewalls (101, 102, 103, 104), can be molded as part of the cooler body or attached as a separate component, and can include grip features such as textured surfaces, overmolded elastomer, or contoured geometry. The bottle opener (111) can be formed from metal or rigid polymer and can be fastened to the front sidewall (101) using screws, rivets, adhesive, or other fastening techniques, and the bottle opener (111) can optionally be recessed, flush-mounted, or protruding. The recessed cup holder (109) can be formed in the bifurcated outer lid (106), including within the second portion (108), and can include one or more circular, polygonal, or contoured recesses sized to receive beverage containers, and can further include drain apertures, retention ribs, or elastomeric inserts.

In certain aspects, and as shown in FIG. 11, the linear movement of the bifurcated outer lid (106) can be achieved using cooperating glide components located in either the cooler body and the lid, or in the lid and the cooler body. For example, in addition to or as an alternative to glide paths (117) within the cooler wall guiding glide pins (116) within the lid wall, the cooler (100) can include one or more glide paths (121) within the lid wall configured to receive and guide one or more glide pins (122) within the cooler wall, such that relative movement between the bifurcated outer lid (106) and the plurality of interconnected sidewalls occurs along the same linear plane during opening and closing. In such configurations, the glide paths (117, 121) and glide pins (116, 122) cooperate to constrain the motion to translation, maintain alignment beneath the rim (115), and support smooth, repeatable opening and closing while the removable inner tray (140) remains positioned within the internal cavity (150) as a partition when desired.

In certain aspects, the plurality of interconnected sidewalls (101, 102, 103, 104, 105) can be formed as a unitary cooler body (e.g., by molding) or can be assembled from multiple panels joined using welding, adhesive bonding, mechanical fasteners, interlocking features, or combinations thereof. The sidewalls can define the internal cavity (150) with any selected volume, shape, and proportions, and can optionally include internal liners, partitions, channels, ribs, or reinforcement features to increase strength and reduce flexing during transport. The front, back, left, and right sidewalls (101, 104, 102, 103) can be substantially planar, contoured, tapered, or otherwise shaped while maintaining curved or rounded edges (114) for ergonomics, impact resistance, and reduced snagging during handling. The rim (115) can be integrally molded with the cooler body or formed as a separate component coupled to the sidewalls, and the rim (115) can define one or more sealing surfaces, locating surfaces, or engagement surfaces that cooperate with the bifurcated outer lid (106) to reduce air exchange and improve thermal retention.

In certain aspects, the plurality of interconnected sidewalls (101, 102, 103, 104, 105) can be formed from one or more polymeric materials, including polyethylene (e.g., HDPE), polypropylene, ABS, polycarbonate, nylon, or blends thereof, and can optionally include glass-filled, mineral-filled, or fiber-reinforced plastics for increased stiffness. In additional aspects, some or all of the sidewalls can include a metallic component, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or coated steel, for durability or aesthetic appearance. The plurality of interconnected sidewalls (101, 102, 103, 104, 105) can include insulation positioned between an outer shell and an inner liner, including foam insulation (e.g., polyurethane foam or polystyrene foam), vacuum insulated panels, aerogel-based insulation, phase-change materials, or other insulating media suitable for maintaining reduced temperature within the internal cavity (150). The bottom sidewall (105) can include the recessed portion (113) as shown, and the recessed portion (113) can be configured as a perimeter recess, a central recess, or a combination of recess features selected to improve stability and reduce rocking on uneven surfaces. In certain aspects, the feet (120) can be formed as separate components coupled to the bottom sidewall (105) or can be integrally formed with the bottom sidewall (105), and the feet (120) can include elastomeric materials (for example, rubber, TPU, or TPE) to reduce sliding and absorb vibration.

In certain aspects, the bifurcated outer lid (106) can be formed as a single integrated lid body or as multiple lid components coupled together, and the bifurcated outer lid (106) can translate along a plane that is substantially parallel to the rim (115) and substantially parallel to an uppermost surface of the cooler (100) when closed. The bifurcated outer lid (106) can include an upper surface that supports items (e.g., food, drinks, or accessories) when closed and can continue to provide a usable surface area when open due to the translating configuration. The first portion (107) and second portion (108) can be formed of the same material or different materials, and each portion can be solid, partially hollow, or include internal ribs, bosses, or reinforcement structures to increase rigidity and reduce warping. In certain aspects, the second portion (108) can remain substantially coplanar throughout opening and closing of the bifurcated outer lid (106), while the first portion (107) rotates about the axis (A1) defined by the hinge (112) between a substantially coplanar configuration and a perpendicular configuration to create an L-shaped profile as described. The hinge (112) can be a living hinge, a pinned hinge, a multi-knuckle hinge, or a concealed hinge, and the hinge (112) can be formed from polymeric materials, metallic materials, or combinations thereof. In certain aspects, the first portion (107) can include a recessed section on a front portion of the bifurcated outer lid (106) configured to facilitate lifting and rotating the first portion (107) relative to the second portion (108).

In certain aspects, the linear movement of the bifurcated outer lid (106) can be provided by glide paths (117) and glide pins (116) that constrain motion to translation while maintaining alignment beneath the rim (115). Each glide path (117) can include a slot, track, groove, channel, or rail extending along the left and right sidewalls (102, 103), and the glide pins (116) can be cylindrical, keyed, shouldered, or otherwise shaped to cooperate with the slot to reduce binding and promote smooth travel. In certain aspects, the glide pins (116) can be formed integrally with the bifurcated outer lid (106) or can be separate components fixed to the bifurcated outer lid (106) using press-fit engagement, threaded engagement, adhesive, welding, or other coupling techniques. The glide paths (117) and glide pins (116) can include low-friction interfaces such as lubricious coatings, polymer inserts, bushings, rollers, or bearing elements. In additional aspects, the cooler (100) can include the alternative glide configuration shown in FIG. 11, where glide paths (121) are positioned within the lid wall and glide pins (122) are positioned within the cooler wall, and the glide paths (117, 121) and glide pins (116, 122) can be used alone or in combination. In certain aspects, the glide components can include detent features, stops, end limits, or retention features that define a fully closed position, a fully open position, or one or more intermediate positions.

In certain aspects, the removable inner tray (140) can move in a linear direction along a plane within the internal cavity (150) and can be lifted and removed from the internal cavity (150). The removable inner tray (140) can be sized and shaped to function as a partition when closed, separating a lower storage region of the internal cavity (150) from an upper region beneath the bifurcated outer lid (106), and can remain stationary while the bifurcated outer lid (106) is opened and closed. The removable inner tray (140) can be formed as a rigid or semi-rigid plate, can include a substantially planar surface, and can include a recessed portion defining a finger hole to facilitate removal, and can optionally include ribs, flanges, lips, or perimeter edges to increase stiffness and reduce spillage. In certain aspects, the removable inner tray (140) can be transparent or translucent while other components are opaque, and can be formed of polymeric materials such as polycarbonate, polypropylene, acrylic, ABS, or other suitable plastics, and can optionally include antimicrobial additives, UV inhibitors, or food-contact compliant materials. The removable inner tray (140) can further include drainage openings, removable inserts, dividers, or accessory mounting features, and can support items (e.g., food containers or utensils) above ice or liquids stored in a lower region of the internal cavity (150).

In certain aspects, the removable inner tray (140) is also referred to as a removable inner lid when the removable inner tray (140) is arranged as the partition between the internal cavity (150) and the bifurcated outer lid (106). In such aspects, the removable inner tray (140) is operatively connected to the left sidewall (102) and the right sidewall (103) for guided movement in a linear direction between an open position and a closed position. The operative connection can be provided by cooperating guide structures on the removable inner tray (140) and the left and right sidewalls (102, 103), including opposed rails, ledges, grooves, tracks, slots, or bearing surfaces that support the removable inner tray (140) and maintain alignment during sliding movement.

In certain aspects, the removable inner tray (140) is positionable within the internal cavity (150) and can move in a linear direction between a closed position and a withdrawn position. In certain aspects, the removable inner tray (140) is supported by and slides along opposing support surfaces defined by the left and right sidewalls (102, 103), including ledges, rails, ribs, grooves, or other bearing surfaces formed on inner portions of the sidewalls, such that the removable inner tray (140) can be slid for access and can be lifted and removed when desired. In certain aspects, the removable inner tray (140) is not mechanically linked to the glide paths (117) that guide the bifurcated outer lid (106), and the bifurcated outer lid (106) translates along the glide paths (117) independently of the removable inner tray (140).

In certain aspects, the cooler (100) can operate in multiple use modes based on the position of the bifurcated outer lid (106), the rotational position of the first portion (107) relative to the second portion (108), and the position of the removable inner tray (140). The bifurcated outer lid (106) can be moved to an open position to increase accessible area while preserving usable uppermost surface footprint, and the first portion (107) can be rotated about axis (A1) to provide partial access into the internal cavity (150) without full opening. In additional aspects, the removable inner tray (140) can remain closed as a partition to separate contents, can be partially withdrawn for access to items stored on the tray, or can be removed to increase storage volume and allow access to the full depth of the internal cavity (150). In certain aspects, the translation of the bifurcated outer lid (106) reduces vertical clearance requirements relative to hinged lids, which can improve usability in confined spaces such as vehicles, boats, and crowded outdoor environments, while maintaining a stable top surface for food preparation, drink placement, or accessory support.

In certain aspects, each component of the cooler (100) may be formed of plastic, and in this aspect, the removable inner tray (140) may be transparent or translucent while the other components are opaque. In additional aspects, each sidewall may include an insulating material internally positioned therein to maintain a temperature within the internal cavity (150) while storing items therein.

The advantageous aspects of the cooler (100) include, but are not limited to, an increased, usable footprint (i.e., uppermost surface) when the bifurcated outer lid (106) is in an open position and the removable inner tray (140) is in a closed position. The unique linear movements of the bifurcated outer lid (106) and removable inner tray (140) further allow a user to easily open and close either lid without the need to slide the bifurcated outer lid (106) backwards, and the movement of the first portions (107) of the bifurcated lid allows various different uses of the cooler including partitioning (FIG. 11) and/or easy access and into the internal cavity (150) regardless of whether the bifurcated outer lid (106) is fully opened.

The cooler (100) can be operated in multiple configurations during use, transport, and storage. For example, the bifurcated outer lid (106) can be moved between fully closed, partially open, and fully open positions while remaining adjacent to the left and right sidewalls (102, 103) and guided by the glide paths (117) and glide pins (116), or by the alternative glide paths (121) and glide pins (122). In such configurations, the removable inner tray (140) can remain in a closed position as a partition between the internal cavity (150) and the bifurcated outer lid (106), can be moved in a linear direction for partial access to items supported thereon, or can be lifted and removed from the internal cavity (150) for full access or increased available volume.

In certain aspects, the first portion (107) and second portion (108) of the bifurcated outer lid (106) can provide different access modes based on the rotational position of the first portion (107) about axis (A1) relative to the second portion (108). By way of example, the first portion (107) can be maintained in a coplanar position relative to the second portion (108) during sliding movement of the bifurcated outer lid (106), or the first portion (107) can be rotated to a perpendicular position to provide localized access into the internal cavity (150) while the second portion (108) remains in the same plane. In certain aspects, the recessed cup holder (109) positioned within the bifurcated outer lid (106), including within the second portion (108), can remain accessible in one or more open or closed positions of the bifurcated outer lid (106).

In certain aspects, the glide path geometry, the number and spacing of glide pins (116), and the placement of the glide paths (117) relative to the rim (115) can vary based on cooler size, targeted load capacity, and manufacturing preference, while maintaining translation along the same linear plane during opening and closing. The cooler (100) can further include one or more accessories coupled to the plurality of interconnected sidewalls (101, 102, 103, 104, 105), including the bottle opener (111) fastened to the front sidewall (101), the strap (110) attached to the left and right sidewalls (102, 103) by the screw (118), the lift handle (119), and the feet (120) positioned on or adjacent the bottom sidewall (105) to assist with stability on uneven or compliant surfaces. The features described herein can be implemented individually or in combination in different embodiments of the cooler (100), and variations in form, material selection, and component placement can be made while maintaining the described sliding operation of the bifurcated outer lid (106) and the removable and partitioning functionality of the removable inner tray (140).

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may include some, all, or none of the above advantages and/or one or more other advantages readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the drawings, descriptions, and claims included herein. Moreover, while specific advantages have been enumerated above, the various embodiments of the present disclosure may include all, some, or none of the enumerated advantages and/or other advantages not specifically enumerated above.

The embodiments disclosed herein are examples of the disclosure and may be embodied in various forms. For instance, although certain embodiments herein are described as separate embodiments, each of the embodiments herein may be combined with one or more of the other embodiments herein. Specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present disclosure in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Like reference numerals may refer to similar or identical elements throughout the description of the figures.

The phrases “in an embodiment,” “in embodiments,” “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” or “in other embodiments” may each refer to one or more of the same or different example embodiments provided in the present disclosure. A phrase in the form “A or B” means “(A), (B), or (A and B).” A phrase in the form “at least one of A, B, or C” means “(A); (B); (C); (A and B); (A and C); (B and C); or (A, B, and C).”

It should be understood that the foregoing description is only illustrative of the present disclosure. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variances. The embodiments described with reference to the attached drawing figures are presented only to demonstrate certain examples of the disclosure. Other elements, steps, methods, and techniques that are insubstantially different from those described above and/or in the appended claims are also intended to be within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A cooler comprising:

a plurality of interconnected sidewalls defining an internal cavity for storing items therein;

a bifurcated outer lid operatively connected to a left and right sidewall of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls and configured to move in a linear direction to open and close the bifurcated outer lid; and

a removable inner tray operatively connected to the left and right sidewall of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls and configured to move in a linear direction, or to be lifted and removed,

wherein the removable inner tray is arranged as a partition between the internal cavity and bifurcated outer lid when the removable inner tray is in a closed position.

2. The cooler of claim 1, wherein the bifurcated outer lid moves along the same linear direction to open and close the bifurcated outer lid.

3. The cooler of claim 1, wherein the removable inner tray moves along the same linear direction to open and close.

4. The cooler of claim 1, wherein the bifurcated outer lid comprises a first portion connected to a second portion by a hinge.

5. The cooler of claim 4, wherein the first portion of the bifurcated outer lid is configured to rotate about an axis (A1) from a co-planar position relative to the second portion of the bifurcated outer lid to a perpendicular position relative to the second portion of the bifurcated outer lid.

6. The cooler of claim 1, wherein the removable inner tray is configured to remain in a stationary position as the bifurcated outer lid moves to open and close, and wherein the removable inner tray comprises a substantially planar surface with a recessed portion defining a finger hole to facilitate removal.

7. The cooler of claim 1, further comprising glide paths internally positioned within the left and right sidewall of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls in which each glide path assembly is operatively connected to the bifurcated outer lid and the removable inner tray and is configured to selectively move the bifurcated outer lid and the removable inner tray in linear directions to open and close each respective lid.

8. The cooler of claim 1, further comprising a bottle opener fastened to a front sidewall of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls.

9. The cooler of claim 1, further comprising a strap attached to the left and right sidewalls of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls via a screw.

10. The cooler of claim 1, wherein the cooler is configured to increase its usable uppermost surface footprint when the bifurcated outer lid is open and the removable inner tray is closed.

11. The cooler of claim 4, further comprising recessed cup holders positioned within the bifurcated outer lid.

12. The cooler of claim 11, wherein the recessed cup holders are positioned within the second portion of the bifurcated outer lid.

13. A cooler comprising: a plurality of interconnected sidewalls defining an internal cavity; a bifurcated outer lid coupled to the plurality of interconnected sidewalls and configured to translate relative to the plurality of interconnected sidewalls to move between a closed position and an open position; and a removable inner tray positionable within the internal cavity, wherein the bifurcated outer lid is guided by cooperating glide components including: a glide path formed in the plurality of interconnected sidewalls; and a glide pin carried by the bifurcated outer lid, the glide pin being received within and guided by the glide path such that the bifurcated outer lid translates along a linear plane during opening and closing.

14. The cooler of claim 13, wherein the glide path is positioned within each of a left sidewall and a right sidewall immediately beneath a rim formed by an uppermost portion of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls.

15. The cooler of claim 14, wherein the glide path extends from a front sidewall toward a back sidewall and is substantially parallel to the rim.

16. The cooler of claim 13, wherein the glide path includes a slot configured to receive the glide pin to constrain the bifurcated outer lid to translational movement.

17. The cooler of claim 13, wherein the bifurcated outer lid includes a second portion having a substantially planar upper surface that remains in a same linear plane during opening and closing of the bifurcated outer lid.

18. The cooler of claim 13, wherein the bifurcated outer lid includes a recessed section on a front portion of the bifurcated outer lid configured for lifting and rotating a first portion of the bifurcated outer lid relative to a second portion.

19. The cooler of claim 13, further comprising a lift handle configured for lifting the bifurcated outer lid.

20. The cooler of claim 13, further comprising one or more feet positioned on or adjacent a bottom sidewall of the plurality of interconnected sidewalls to improve stability on uneven or compliant surfaces.