Portable Cooler
Disclosed embodiments relate to portable storage containers. In some embodiments, a portable storage container may comprise an first storage area, the first storage area having an outer wall comprising a first insulator; a second storage area, the second storage area having an outer wall comprising a second insulator; a separator between a bottom surface of the first storage area and an upper surface of the second storage area, wherein the separator is liquid-resistant and thermally conductive; an upper cover; and a lower cover.
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This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/696,161, filed Sep. 18, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND Technical FieldThis disclosure relates to storage containers having insulation. In some embodiments, portable coolers are described having multiple storage compartments.
Background InformationCoolers are used to regulate internal temperatures. Coolers with ice, ice packs, or the like, may be used to keep their contents at a temperature below an external or ambient temperature. Further, coolers, despite their name, may also be used with warming elements, such as heating pads or the like, to maintain an internal temperature above an external or ambient temperature.
Hard (that is, structurally rigid or inflexible) coolers may be cumbersome in some environments. For example, hard coolers may be uncomfortable to hold or carry, may be challenging to pack into a vehicle or the like, and may present an unpleasant physical or sensory experience to those who come into contact with them. Further, the inflexible shape and dimensions of a hard cooler can be a disadvantage and challenge given their various uses and varying contents.
Some coolers may contain two different compartments. Such a design potentially poses other problems. For example, there is a risk that fluids (e.g., water, beverages, other liquids, etc.) will leak from one compartment to the other. This may affect items in one container that should be kept dry. Further, items stored in one compartment (e.g., fish, clothes, etc.) may have strong odors, and those odors may potentially travel to the other compartment, thus negatively affecting the contents of the other compartment.
While some of these problems may be attempted to be addressed using an impermeable barrier between the two compartments (e.g., a barrier that is waterproof, thermally insulating, and odor-isolating), this poses problems as well. For example, with such an impermeable barrier, temperature control (e.g., cooling) from one compartment will not reach the other compartment. Thus, separate temperature control elements (e.g., ice, ice packs, heating pads, etc.) would be needed for each compartment. This approach would be inefficient, require potentially multiple temperature control elements, add weight, and take up space.
In addition to these problems, coolers are passive devices. That is, coolers lack features such as interior or external illumination, integrated batteries, power generators, and communications capabilities. Because coolers lack these features, they fail to satisfy various needs of users.
Solutions are needed to address these and other challenges, as discussed further below.
SUMMARYThe disclosed embodiments describe portable storage containers. For example, in an embodiment, a portable storage container may comprise an first storage area, the first storage area having an outer wall comprising a first insulator; a second storage area, the second storage area having an outer wall comprising a second insulator; a separator between a bottom surface of the first storage area and an upper surface of the second storage area, wherein the separator is liquid-resistant and thermally conductive; an upper cover; and a lower cover.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the separator may comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane material.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the separator may comprise a plastic material.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the separator may comprise a combination of at least one thermoplastic polyurethane material and at least one plastic material.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the separator may comprise a metallic material.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the separator may comprise a strength-reinforcing material.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the strength-reinforcing material may comprise at least one of: a webbed material, a ribbed material, or a polygonal material.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may comprise at least one hinged front access opening closable with a liquid-resistant mechanism.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the liquid-resistant mechanism may be a liquid-resistant zipper.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the liquid-resistant mechanism comprises an interior protrusion fitting in contact with an interior mouth.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the front access opening may have an interior insulating protrusion.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the interior insulation protrusion may fit in contact with the second insulator when the front access opening is closed.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may comprise a front access opening closable with a zipper.
According to a disclosed embodiment, at least one of the second storage area and the first storage area may comprise at least one interior pocket.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the at least one interior pocket may hold a cooling package.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the cooling package may provide structural rigidity to the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the first storage area may have a sealing material at a lower edge in contact with the separator.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the sealing material may comprise a thermoplastic polyurethane material.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the portable storage container may further comprise one or more carrying straps.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the one or more carrying straps may be attached to a rear surface of the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the one or more carrying straps may be attached to a top surface of the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the one or more carrying straps may be padded.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the one or more carrying straps may extend substantially laterally from a rear surface of the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the one or more carrying straps may have lower ends that are secured to ends of material flaps.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the one or more carrying straps may be secured to a hard potion of a rear surface of the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, a lower portion of a rear surface of the portable storage container may comprise padding.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the upper cover may comprise a zipper.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the upper cover may be substantially rectangular.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the upper cover may be substantially oval.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the upper cover may comprise a flap attaching to a front face of the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the base may comprise an adaptor for receiving a movement structure comprising one or more wheel.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the movement structure may comprise one or more leg with one or more wheel.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the movement structure may comprise a platform with one or more wheel.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may comprise an interior material that is light-reflective.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may comprise an interior material comprising phosphors.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may comprise an interior illumination device.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the illumination device may be battery-operated.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the portable storage container may further comprise a battery.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the battery may be disposed within the outer wall of the first storage area.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the battery may be disposed within the outer wall of the second storage area.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the battery may be chargeable via a solar panel disposed at the upper cover.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the battery may be chargeable via an external solar panel.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the portable storage container may further comprise a wireless communications interface.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the wireless communications interface may operate via at least one of: WIFI, Bluetooth, or cellular communications.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the wireless communications interface may be configured to communicate with a mobile application.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the mobile application may be configured to display a temperature sensed from within the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the mobile application may be configured to adjust a temperature within the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the wireless communications interface may be in communication with a thermometer within the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the wireless communications interface may be in communication with a first thermometer within the first storage area and a second thermometer within the second storage area.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the outer wall of the first storage area may be structurally rigid.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the outer wall of the first storage area may be structurally non-rigid.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the outer wall of the second storage area may be structurally rigid.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the outer wall of the second storage area may be structurally non-rigid.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the portable storage container may further comprise a closable drain at the base.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the upper cover may close with a magnetic coupling.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the upper cover may close with a buckle.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the upper cover may be configured to adjustably cover a top surface of the first storage area.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the lower cover may form a base of the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may have an interior width of more than 10.4 inches and less than 13 inches.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may have an interior width of more than 15.6 inches and less than 18 inches.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may have an interior height of more than 2.6 inches and less than 5 inches.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may have an interior height of more than 5.2 inches and less than 8 inches.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may comprise a front access opening having a width of more than 10.4 inches and less than 13 inches.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may comprise a front access opening having a width of more than 15.6 inches and less than 18 inches.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may comprise a front access opening having a height of more than 2.6 inches and less than 5 inches.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the second storage area may comprise a front access opening having a height of more than 5.2 inches and less than 8 inches.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the portable storage container may further comprise a front access opening having a door attached to an outer surface of the second storage area.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the door may be attached along a lower edge of the front access opening.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the door may be attached along a lateral edge of the front access opening.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the door may have an outward facing handle.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the door may have an outward facing storage pocket.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the first storage area and the second storage area may have a same height.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the upper cover may comprise a hard liner.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the upper cover may comprise a soft liner.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the portable storage container further comprises a strap extending around a perimeter of the portable storage container and a clasp attached to the strap on a first end.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the clasp comprises a hook on a second end opposite the first end, wherein the hook is configured to detachably connect to the strap.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the clasp comprises a tooth configured to open a bottle.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the strap is attached to the perimeter of the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, a length of the strap is not attached to the perimeter of the portable storage container.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the first and second insulators are the same insulator.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the first and second insulators are different portions of the same insulator.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the first and second insulators are different insulators.
The disclosed embodiments further describe portable storage containers. For example, in an embodiment, a portable storage container may comprise a first storage area, the first storage area having an outer wall comprising a first insulator, a second storage area, the second storage area having an outer wall comprising a second insulator, and a separator between a surface of the first storage area and a surface of the second storage area, wherein the separator is liquid-resistant and thermally conductive.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the portable storage container may comprise at least one strap.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the portable storage container may further comprise a first cover for the first storage area and a second cover for the second storage area.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the first storage area may be above the second storage area.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the first storage area may have a greater volume than the second storage area.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the first storage area may be laterally adjacent the second storage area.
According to a disclosed embodiment, the portable storage container may further comprise an adhesive securing an outer liner to an insulation layer.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not restrictive of the disclosed embodiments, as claimed.
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate disclosed embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:
In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed example embodiments. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the principles of the example embodiments may be practiced without every specific detail. Well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the principles of the example embodiments. Unless explicitly stated, the example methods and processes described herein are not constrained to a particular order or sequence, or constrained to a particular system configuration. Additionally, some of the described embodiments or elements thereof can occur or be performed simultaneously, at the same point in time, or concurrently.
The features, construction, and utility of a soft cooler as described herein overcome several problems in the art. As discussed above, other types of coolers are undesirable in terms of their user-friendliness, sensory or physical experience, portability, malleability, ability to physically separate compartments while allowing thermal transfer, electrical capabilities, and communications capabilities. These and other problems are addressed below with the various embodiments described herein.
Reference will now be made in detail to the disclosed embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
In the example illustrated, upper cover 101 fastens or secures to body 102 via one or more buckle 103. In some embodiments, instead of one or more buckle, various other closing mechanisms may be used, such as Velcro™, buttons, rope or knots, zippers, hook-and-loops, clasps, eyelets, snaps, kiss lock clasps, twist locks, tuck locks, drawstrings, magnets, or the like. Body 102 may be a hard material (e.g., a hard plastic, metal, or the like). Alternatively, body 102 may be a soft material, such as a fabric, foam, rubber, composite, or the like. Body 102 may also be structurally rigid. That is body 102 may retain its structural form and dimensions. To be structurally rigid, body 102 may include rigid walls around the upper storage compartment, around the lower storage compartment, at upper cover 101, and at base 113. In further embodiments, upper cover 101 may removably secure or attach to body 102 without any zipper, buckle, snaps, or the like. For example, upper cover 101 may friction-fit with body 102. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, portable storage container 100 may utilize insulation to maintain internal temperatures. For example, the insulation may be integrated into sidewalls of portable storage container 100, integrated into upper cover 101, integrated into base 113, or all of the above. The insulation may take the form of, for example, Styrofoam, polyurethane, polystyrene, fiberglass, or various other foams or materials. In some embodiments, the insulation may be formed from one continuous insulative layer formed to the shape of portable storage container 100. In other embodiments, individual pieces of insulative material may be formed to the sidewalls of portable storage container 100. In some embodiments, the insulation may be continuous between the upper storage compartment and the lower storage compartment. In other embodiments, the upper storage compartment may include a layer of insulation and the lower storage compartment may include a separate layer of insulation. In some embodiments, the insulation may include a hole or opening through one or more vertical walls to allow access to a lower storage compartment through a vertical wall of portable storage container 100, as disclosed herein with respect to
Portable storage container 100 may also include one or more carrying apparatuses 104 on upper cover 101, such as a handle, loop, grip, or the like. The one or more carrying apparatuses 104 may be used for carrying, hanging, or otherwise moving portable storage container 100. Portable storage container 100 may further include one or more side pouches 105/107. In some embodiments, side pouches 105/107 may be elastic openings for carrying objects (e.g., bottles or other objects). For example, in some embodiments, side pouches 105/107 may include a mesh material or any other elastically deformable material. Alternatively, side pouches 105/107 may be inelastic. In some embodiments, side pouches 105/107 may be closable (e.g., Velcro™, buttons, rope or knots, zippers, hook-and-loops, clasps, eyelets, snaps, kiss lock clasps, twist locks, tuck locks, drawstrings, or the like). In some embodiments, pouches 105/107 may include straps, bungees, magnetic clips, hooks, or any other device that may retain an object in tension against the body of portable storage container 100. In further alternative embodiments, side pouches 105/107 may allow access to the interior of portable storage container 100. That is, side pouches 105/107 may allow access to the upper storage compartment of portable storage container 100 (as discussed further below), to the lower storage compartment of portable storage container 100 (as discussed further below), or to both. In embodiments where side pouches 105/107 allow access to the interior of portable storage container 100, side pouches 105/107 may include insulation (e.g., integrated into a middle layer of side pouches 105/107, an interior-facing later, etc.).
As illustrated, exemplary portable storage container 100 may also include one or more side loops 106/108. Side loops 106/108 may attach to side pouches 105/107 to allow for opening and closing side pouches 105/107. Further, in some embodiments, side loops 106/108 may be attached to zippers or the like for opening and closing side pouches 105/107. It should be understood that, while side pouches 105/107 and side loops 106/108 are illustrated in
Portable storage container 100 may further include one or more side grips 109/110. In some embodiments, side grips 109/110 are physically solid and not hollow. In other embodiments, side grips 109/110 may be hollow such that from a birds' eye view there is empty space within them to allow for gripping. In various embodiments, side grips 109/110 may be used to grip, hold, or carry portable storage container 100. In other embodiments, the sidewalls of portable storage container 100 may be flat and may not include side grips 109/110.
Portable storage container 100 may also include a front access 112, which in some embodiments may include a front pouch 111. As discussed further below, front access 112 may be openable to allow access to the lower storage compartment of portable storage container 100. In accordance with below embodiments, front access 112 may be opened and closed using various techniques, such as Velcro™, buttons, rope or knots, zippers, hook-and-loops, clasps, eyelets, snaps, kiss lock clasps, twist locks, tuck locks, drawstrings, or the like. Using such techniques, front access 112 may open from the right and have its attachment mechanism (e.g., fabric hinge, mechanical hinge, etc.) fastened on the left of front access 112. Alternatively, front access 112 may open from the left (having its attachment mechanism on the right of front access 112), from the top (having its attachment mechanism at the bottom of front access 112), or from the bottom (having its attachment mechanism at the top of front access 112). In further embodiments, front access 112 may open as a drawer. For example, front access 112 may open forward via tracks or wheels. In other embodiments, front access 112 may comprise two or more hinged doors that may have attachment mechanisms on opposite sides of the opening.
While exemplary portable storage container 100 is shown having a top face or lid that is substantially rectangular, in other embodiments the top face or lid may be oval shaped. In such embodiments, body 102 may be oval shaped as well. Further, while cover or lid 101 is shown as resting on top of body 102, in other embodiments cover or lid 101 may be a flap (e.g., a pliable material).
In some embodiments, base 113 may be adaptable to attach to a movement mechanism. For example, base 113 may have sockets, a platform, or an adapter to attach to legs having wheels. In some embodiments, base 113 may further include a telescopic handle that may allow a user to push or pull portable storage container 100 on the wheels. In this manner, portable storage container 100 may be more portable, such that it may be moved using removable wheels.
As illustrated, portable storage container 200 may include a front panel 201 that opens. Consistent with the above discussion, front panel 201 may open via a fastening device, such as a fabric or mechanical hinge. When front panel 201 opens from the right (as illustrated), the fastening device may be on the left side of front panel 201. Alternatively, front panel 201 may open from the right (with its fastening device on the left), top (with its fastening device on the bottom), or bottom (with its fastening device on the top). Front panel 201 may open and close according to various mechanisms, such as Velcro™, buttons, rope or knots, zippers, hook-and-loops, clasps, eyelets, snaps, kiss lock clasps, twist locks, tuck locks, drawstrings, or the like. In some embodiments, these mechanisms may be water-resistant or water-proof (e.g., a water-resistant zipper).
In various embodiments, ice or heating pack 203 may be removable or permanently connected to portable storage container 200. For cooling of portable storage container 200, ice or heating pack 203 may be a cooling pack, such as frozen water, frozen gel, carboxy methyl cellulose, or the like. For heating of portable storage container 200, ice or heating pack 203 may be a warming pack, such as warm water, a warm gel, an infrared device, a heating coil device, or the like. In further embodiments, the lower storage compartment of portable storage container 200 may also contain a ventilation device, such as a fan.
In some embodiments portable storage container 200 may include electrical power. Further, in some embodiments portable storage container 200 may include wireless communications capabilities. The electrical power may be provided in several ways. For example, portable storage container 200 may include (e.g., embedded within its side walls, upper cover, or lower base) one or more batteries. The batteries may be replaceable or rechargeable. Further, in some embodiments portable storage container 200 may include a solar panel (e.g., on its upper cover) to collect solar energy and convert the same to electrical energy, which may be stored in one or more batteries. In embodiments using electrical power within portable storage container 200, the power may be used to perform several functions. For example, the power may be used to energize a heating or cooling device (e.g., ice or heating pack 203). Further, the power may be used to operate a ventilation device, such as an interior fan within the upper or lower storage compartment of portable storage container 200. In addition, in some embodiments the power may be used to provide interior or external illumination to portable storage container 200. For example, the power may operate a light (e.g., incandescent, halogen, fluorescent, compact fluorescent lamp, light emitting diode, etc.) within the upper or lower storage compartment of portable storage container 200. While in some embodiments such a light may be electrically powered, in other embodiments a light-reflective material may be used. Further in some embodiments, such a material may include phosphors. Alternatively, the power may be used to operate a light fastened to an external surface of portable storage container 200 (e.g., a top cover, a side wall, or a bottom base).
In additional embodiments involving electrical power within portable storage container 200, the power may be used to operate a wireless communications interface or device (not shown). This wireless communications device may be embedded in portable storage container 200, such as in a wall, the upper cover, or the lower base. Alternatively, the wireless communications device may be fastened to an exterior surface of portable storage container 200 (e.g., an outer wall, cover, or base). Such a wireless communications device may operate using, for example, Bluetooth, WiFi, cellular, infrared, radio frequency identification, or other wireless communications techniques. In accordance with such embodiments, portable storage container 200 may communicate via its wireless communications interface with external devices. For example, portable storage container 200 may communicate with mobile devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, etc.), personal computers, Internet-of-Things devices, and the like. In some embodiments, an application (e.g., mobile application) may be configured to communicate with portable storage container 200 via the wireless communications interface. Such an application may be configured to control a light (as discussed above), a fan (as discussed above), a heating or cooling pad (as discussed above), or other components of portable storage container 200. Further, in some embodiments the application may be able to communicate with portable storage container 200 to determine a location (e.g., geographic location or proximity location) of portable storage container 200. To facilitate such location capabilities, portable storage container 200 may be configured to illuminate one of its lights or emit a sound (e.g., via a loudspeaker attached to or embedded within portable storage container 200). These capabilities may help locate portable storage container 200 in the event it is lost, covered, hidden, or otherwise out of sight. In addition, in some embodiments portable storage container 200 may include one or more thermometer, and its temperature reading may be communicated wirelessly to an application, which may display the detected temperature. As an example, two thermometers may be utilized, one in the upper storage compartment, and the other in the lower storage compartment.
Carrying straps 301 may be attached to portable storage container 300 to enable a user to wear portable storage container 300 like a backpack. In some embodiments, carrying straps 301 may comprise a single strap, such as a strap to be worn on one shoulder. Alternatively, as illustrated in
As illustrated, portable storage container 300 may secure its straps 301 to a back wall, or to a base, of portable storage container 300 via one or more fasteners 302. Such fasteners may attach to bottom fasteners 304 of straps 301. As disclosed herein, such fasteners may be, as examples, Velcro™, buttons, rope or knots, zippers, hook-and-loops, clasps, eyelets, snaps, kiss lock clasps, twist locks, tuck locks, drawstrings, or the like.
As also shown in
In further embodiments, backside 308 may be curved or rounded. For example, backside 308 may be curved to align with the shape of a person's back. By curving backside 308 in this manner, the force of the backside 308 may be better distributed (causing less user pain or discomfort) than if backside 308 was flat. Further, in some embodiments padding on backside 308 may include multiple panes or angles of pads, which may also align with the curve of a user's back.
As illustrated, portable storage container 400 may include one or more side straps 401 and one or more outer strap 402, which may function to hold an object 403 such as a bottle or other object. Consistent with above embodiments, side straps 401 and outer strap 402 may be elastic straps, bands, covers, enclosures, or the like. Alternatively, side straps 401 and outer strap 402 may be inelastic. In some embodiments, side straps 401 and outer strap 402 may be closable (e.g., Velcro™ buttons, rope or knots, zippers, hook-and-loops, clasps, eyelets, snaps, kiss lock clasps, twist locks, tuck locks, drawstrings, or the like). While in
As discussed above, in some embodiments side pocket 404 provides access to a storage area external to the internal (top and bottom) storage compartments of portable storage container 400. Such an external storage container may allow for non-insulated (or, alternatively, insulated) storage of items. Alternatively, side pocket 404 may allow access (e.g., via closing mechanism 405) directly to the upper or lower storage compartment of portable storage container 400. Thus, for example, in such embodiments, side pocket 404 may allow a user to reach into the top or bottom storage compartment to access a stored item (e.g., an item being cooled or heated, or simply stored).
As shown in
Additional embodiments of such zippers are illustrated in
As illustrated, portable storage container 600 may include front access 601, as discussed above in connection with prior embodiments. Front access 601 may comprise an opening in the insulative layer within the sidewalls of portable storage container 600. While front access 601 may be openable from the right, left, top, or bottom, the illustrated embodiment allows front access 601 to open from the top. Accordingly, its fastening (e.g., fabric hinge, mechanical hinge, etc.) may be located along its bottom. Front access 601 may include an interior protrusion 602, which may be formed of a padded or insulated material. According to various embodiments, interior protrusion 602 may fit in contact with interior mouth 603 when front access 601 is closed, to provide a closed, waterproof, and insulated barrier. In some embodiments, this may be reversed, and interior mouth 603 may fit in contact with interior protrusion 602 to provide a closed, waterproof, and insulated barrier. In addition to providing insulation performance, the use of interior protrusion fitting in contact with interior mouth 603 may provide additional structural stability to portable storage container 600. That is, if interior protrusion 602 and interior mouth 603 are formed of a firm material (e.g., reinforced with a hard plastic, metal, or the like), they may add structural stability to the front wall of portable storage container 600. Additionally, interior protrusion 602 and interior mouth 603 may create a waterproof seal for lower storage compartment 604. In some embodiments, interior protrusion 602 and interior mouth 603 may have a soft or pliable outer material (e.g., rubber, etc.) but a firm inner material. Further, in some embodiments interior protrusion 602 and interior mouth 603 may include an insulating material.
When opened, front access 601 may allow access to lower storage compartment 604. As discussed above, lower storage compartment 604 may be separated from upper storage compartment 608 by one or more dividers or middle layers. This divider or middle layer is discussed further in connection with
While lid or cover 605 may be openable from the front, back, left or right, the illustrated embodiment allows lid or cover 605 to open from the front. Accordingly, its fastening (e.g., fabric hinge, mechanical hinge, etc.) may be located along its back edge. In other embodiments, lid or cover 605 may comprise two hinged doors that may be openable from opposite sides of portable storage container 600. In some embodiments, portable storage container 600 may further include a front opening to access upper storage compartment 608. For example, the front opening to access upper storage compartment 608 may correspond to front access 601.
In some embodiments, lower storage compartment 604 and upper storage compartment 608 may be constructed to fit a predetermined number of items. For example, together both upper and lower compartments may be sized to fit a number of standard 12-ounce cans, such as 36 cans, 30 cans, 24 cans, 18 cans, 12 cans, 8 cans, etc. If a 12-ounce can is 4.8″ tall and 2.6″ wide, the following exemplary arrangements may be used. The following table shows ranges of widths, depths, and heights, depending on what particular can sizes are contemplated.
The strength of divider or barrier 612 may be configured appropriate to the needs of the portable storage container 600. For example, divider or barrier 612 may be capable of supporting at least a weight of water equal to the volume of interior 608. In further embodiments, divider or barrier 612 may be configured to support at least the weight of 12-ounce cans of a beverage. For example, if each 12-ounce can weighs 0.75 pounds, divider or barrier 612 may support at least 18 pounds (24 cans), 27 pounds (36 cans), or the like. Further, divider or barrier 612 may be strong enough to hold such weights, plus the weight of ice (e.g., a five-pound bag, seven-pound bag, etc.).
In accordance with these embodiments, divider or barrier 612 may offer several advantages. For example, by being liquid-resistant or liquid-proof, divider or barrier 612 may prevent (or impede) liquids from the top compartment of portable storage container 600 from leaking down into the lower storage compartment. As an illustration, this may prevent (or impede) melting ice in the top compartment from leaking down into dry storage in the lower compartment. Additionally, because divider or barrier 612 is thermally conductive or passive, heat transfer between the top and bottom compartments allows a cooling or heating material (e.g., ice, ice pack, heating pad, etc.) in one compartment to cool or heat the other compartment. This advantageously reduces the need for cooling or heating materials in both the top and lower compartments. This in turn allows for less materials, less weight, and less bulk for portable storage container 600. As a result, portable storage container 600 is more portable, more user-friendly, less bulky, and able to hold more contents.
In some embodiments, divider or barrier 612 may be a polypropylene material. In other embodiments, divider or barrier 612 may be an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene material, polycarbonate material, polyethylene material, or any other plastic with a UL certificate. The tensile strength of divider or barrier 612 may be about 28.9 MPa (or plus or minus 10% thereof). The elongation of divider or barrier 612 may be about 200%-700%. The flexural strength of divider or barrier 612 may be about 41.3-55.1 MPa. The coefficient of thermal expansion of divider or barrier 612 may be 4.5 10−5 K−1 (or plus or minus 10% thereof). The elastic modulus of divider or barrier 612 may be about 1378 MPa (or plus or minus 10% thereof). The density of divider or barrier 612 may be 0.91 g/cm3 (or plus or minus 10% thereof). The thickness of divider or barrier 612 may be about 2 mm (or plus or minus 10% thereof).
As also illustrated in
For added structural stability, in some embodiments barrier or divider 612 may be reinforced. For example, barrier or divider 612 may be reinforced with an integrated material, such as a webbing, hexagonal or other polygonal shape, lengthwise or widthwise support bars, diagonal support bars, or the like. Such integrated material may take the form of a plastic, a metal, a composite, or another strengthening material.
In some embodiments, the upper and lower storage compartments may include a liner, such as a waterproof liner. The liner may be hard (e.g., a hard plastic, metal, etc.) or soft (e.g., a fabric, rubber, plastic, etc.).
As illustrated, and consistent with above embodiments, carrying strap apparatus 900 may include one or more strap 901, one or more upper strap fastener 902, one or more stability fastener 903, one or more lower strap fastener 904, and one or more base fastener 905. All or portions of straps 901 may be padded, and all or portions of back face 906 may be padded.
In some embodiments, back face 906 is secured to a surface (e.g., rear surface) of a portable storage container. For example, back face 906 may be secured adhesively, may be integrated (e.g., sewn in), or may be composite with (e.g., via a three-dimensional printing process, or a molding process) a surface of portable storage container.
As depicted in
As illustrated, portable storage container 1300 may secure its carrying straps 1306 to a back wall, or to a base, of portable storage container 1300 via one or more fasteners 1307. Such fasteners may attach to bottom fasteners 1313 of carrying straps 1306. As disclosed herein, such fasteners may be, as examples, Velcro™ buttons, rope or knots, zippers, hook-and-loops, clasps, eyelets, snaps, kiss lock clasps, twist locks, tuck locks, drawstrings, or the like.
As also shown in
For added comfort and durability, portable storage container 1300 may also include padding 1311 along all or part of its backside 308. Such padding 1311 may facilitate carrying by a user, whose back may come in contact with backside 1312. Such padding 1311 may encompass an upper portion of backside 1312 (e.g., a top half, third, fourth, etc.), a middle portion of backside 1312 (e.g., a middle third, fourth, etc.), a bottom portion of backside 1312 (e.g., a bottom half, third, fourth, etc.), or may encompass all of backside 1312. Such padding 1311 may include one pad extending across backside 1312, or may include multiple pads arranged across backside 1312. Padding 1311 may be implemented using, for example, a foam, a gel, a fabric, a spring, a rubber, or the like. For example, in some embodiments, padding 1311 may include a layer of about 15 mm thick ethylene vinyl acetate (“EVA”) and a layer of about 1 mm thick neoprene. In other embodiments, padding 1311 may include a layer of about 15 mm thick polyethylene foam and a layer of about 1 mm thick Lycra. Similarly, all or part of straps 1306 themselves may be padded too. In some embodiments, padding 1311 may be substantially flat as it extends along backside 1312. In other embodiments, padding 1311 may be curved outwardly along backside 1312 to provide increased comfort and lumbar support for a user carrying portable storage container 1311.
In some embodiments, as depicted in
As depicted in
It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are not necessarily limited in their application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings and/or the examples. The disclosed embodiments are capable of variations, or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.
The disclosed embodiments may be implemented in a system, a method, and/or a computer program product. The computer program product may include a computer readable storage medium (or media) having computer readable program instructions thereon for causing a processor to carry out aspects of the present disclosure.
The computer readable storage medium can be a tangible device that can retain and store instructions for use by an instruction execution device. The computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of the computer readable storage medium includes the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device such as punch-cards or raised structures in a groove having instructions recorded thereon, and any suitable combination of the foregoing. A computer readable storage medium, as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmitted through a wire.
Computer readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded to respective computing/processing devices from a computer readable storage medium or to an external computer or external storage device via a network, for example, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network and/or a wireless network. The network may comprise copper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers and/or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing/processing device receives computer readable program instructions from the network and forwards the computer readable program instructions for storage in a computer readable storage medium within the respective computing/processing device.
Computer readable program instructions for carrying out operations of the present disclosure may be assembler instructions, instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state-setting data, or either source code or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Smalltalk, C++ or the like, and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The computer readable program instructions may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider). In some embodiments, electronic circuitry including, for example, programmable logic circuitry, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or programmable logic arrays (PLA) may execute the computer readable program instructions by utilizing state information of the computer readable program instructions to personalize the electronic circuitry, in order to perform aspects of the present disclosure.
Aspects of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the disclosure. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer readable program instructions.
These computer readable program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. These computer readable program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable storage medium that can direct a computer, a programmable data processing apparatus, and/or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the computer readable storage medium having instructions stored therein comprises an article of manufacture including instructions which implement aspects of the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
The computer readable program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device to produce a computer implemented process, such that the instructions which execute on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device implement the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or block diagrams may represent a software program, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.
The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.
It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant imaging techniques, machine learning or artificial intelligence techniques, robotic techniques, and programming techniques will be developed, and the scope of this disclosure is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.
It is appreciated that certain features of the disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.
Although the disclosure has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.
Claims
1.-46. (canceled)
47. A portable storage container, comprising:
- a first storage area, the first storage area having an outer wall comprising a first insulator;
- a second storage area, the second storage area having an outer wall comprising a second insulator;
- a separator between a bottom surface of the first storage area and an upper surface of the second storage area, wherein the separator is liquid-resistant and thermally conductive; and
- a cover.
48. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein at least one of the second storage area and the first storage area comprises at least one interior pocket.
49. The portable storage container of claim 48, wherein the at least one interior pocket holds a cooling package.
50. The portable storage container of claim 49, wherein the cooling package provides structural rigidity to the portable storage container.
51. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the separator comprises a battery.
52. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the separator comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane material, a plastic material, or a combination thereof.
53. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the separator comprises a metallic material.
54. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the second storage area comprises at least one hinged front access opening closable with a liquid-resistant mechanism.
55. The portable storage container of claim 54, wherein the liquid-resistant mechanism is a liquid-resistant zipper.
56. The portable storage container of claim 55, wherein the liquid-resistant mechanism comprises an interior protrusion fitting in contact with an interior mouth.
57. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the first storage area has a sealing material at a lower edge in contact with the separator.
58. The portable storage container of claim 47, further comprising one or more carrying straps.
59. The portable storage container of claim 58, wherein the one or more carrying straps are attached to a rear surface or a top surface of the portable storage container.
60. The portable storage container of claim 59, wherein the one or more carrying straps extend substantially laterally from a rear surface of the portable storage container.
61. The portable storage container of claim 59, wherein the one or more carrying straps have lower ends that are secured to ends of material flaps.
62. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein a lower portion of a rear surface of the portable storage container comprises padding.
63. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the outer wall of the first storage area is structurally rigid.
64. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the outer wall of the first storage area is structurally non-rigid.
65. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the outer wall of the second storage area is structurally rigid.
66. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the outer wall of the second storage area is structurally non-rigid.
67. The portable storage container of claim 47, further comprising:
- a strap extending around a perimeter of the portable storage container; and
- a clasp attached to the strap on a first end.
68. The portable storage container of claim 67, wherein the clasp comprises a hook on a second end opposite the first end, wherein the hook is configured to detachably connect to the strap.
69. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the first and second insulators are the same insulator.
70. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the first and second insulators are different insulators.
71. The portable storage container of claim 47, wherein the first storage area and the second storage area have the same dimensions.
72. A portable storage container, comprising:
- a first storage area, the first storage area having an outer wall comprising a first insulator;
- a second storage area, the second storage area having an outer wall comprising a second insulator; and
- a separator between a surface of the first storage area and a surface of the second storage area, wherein the separator is liquid-resistant and thermally conductive.
73. The portable storage container of claim 72, further comprising
- a first cover for the first storage area; and
- a second cover for the second storage area.
74. The portable storage container of claim 72, wherein the first storage area is above the second storage area.
75. The portable storage container of claim 72, wherein the first storage area has a greater volume than the second storage area.
76. The portable storage container of claim 72, wherein the first storage area is laterally adjacent the second storage area.
Type: Application
Filed: Sep 19, 2025
Publication Date: Aug 20, 2026
Applicant: SharkNinja Operating LLC (Needham, MA)
Inventors: Alex TURCOTTE (Needham, MA), Lauren TARVIN (Needham, MA), Mitchell BAILEY (Needham, MA), Da DENG (Needham, MA), Annie MILLS (Needham, MA), Simon HUGHES (Needham, MA), Thomas SHARP (Needham, MA), Adam ROBERT (Needham, MA), Haien ZHOU (Needham, MA), Mario ZHU (Needham, MA), Able CHEN (Needham, MA)
Application Number: 19/334,400
