JP2023181492A - Spigot and spigot guard for insulating container - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an insulating container with a base and a lid that are durable with little possibility of breakage.SOLUTION: A lid may be rotatable about a hinge from a closed configuration to an open configuration and may be secured, via one or more latching devices, in either the closed configuration or the open configuration. In some instances, the rotatable lid may be non-destructively removable from the base. Some example arrangements include a removable lid that, when removed, may be secured to the base via an additional portion of the latching device. Additional features of the insulating container include handles that are integrally formed with the base, a recess formed in the base and housing a spigot, and/or a spigot guard, and/or an insulating container mount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 38

Description

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. , a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. A continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/200,213, entitled "Spigot and Spigot Guard for an Insulating Container," filed on November 26, 2018. Additionally, this is a divisional application of Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-529794 filed on November 22, 2019.

Various types of containers are often used to store liquids as well as containers or other items such as food. In some configurations, it may be advantageous to maintain the temperature of the contents stored within the container. Therefore, insulated containers may be used. However, traditional insulated containers often do not have very high durability. For example, conventional insulated containers have lids that can be lost or damaged, handles that can protrude from the base of the container, and/or faucets that protrude outwardly from the container. In these configurations, the lid, handle, and/or faucet may be susceptible to breakage, which may, in some cases, render the container virtually unusable.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Insulated containers with various features are described herein. In some instances, an insulated container can have a base and a lid. The lid may be rotatable about the hinge from a closed position or configuration to an open configuration. In some instances, an insulated container can have at least one latch device. A latching device can have a portion disposed on the lid and a portion disposed on the base and can be configured to secure the lid in a closed configuration. In some configurations, the latching device can have an additional portion disposed on another side of the base and configured to secure the lid in the open configuration.

In some instances, the rotatable lid may be non-destructively removable from the base. Thus, the lid can be removed from the base if desired and reattached if desired. In some configurations, the removable lid may be secured to the base via an additional portion of the latching device when removed.

In some configurations, the insulated container can have a handle integrally formed with the base. A handle may be formed as an undercut in the sidewall of the base and may be flush with the exterior surface of the base. Additionally or alternatively, the base can have a recess in which the faucet is disposed. A faucet guard may extend from one edge of the recess over the faucet to the opposite edge of the recess, thereby protecting the faucet while allowing use of the faucet.

In some cases, the faucet may be disassembled and reassembled to enable cleaning the faucet and various components. For example, a faucet can have a faucet body and a threaded valve rod extending through the faucet body and connected to a button that is configured to dispense fluid from an insulated container. The faucet may further include a faucet nut connected to the threaded portion of the faucet body and disposed inside the insulated container for maintaining the position of the faucet.

In some configurations, the faucet guard can include two side faucet guards, one side faucet positioned on each side of the faucet. A side faucet guard may be integrally formed with the base of the insulated container. In some instances, the faucet guard can further include a faucet cross guard that can be formed separately from the base and connected to the base.

In some configurations, an insulated container may be installed or secured to an insulated container mount. Insulated container mounts provide a base for securing containers in various types of vehicles, such as, for example, automobiles, boats, ATVs, golf carts, aircraft, or other platforms. In some instances, the interior of the insulated container may be accessed while the insulated container is secured to the insulated container mount.

In some configurations, the insulated container can have a gasket configured to seal the opening when the lid is in the closed position. In some instances, a gasket is secured within a recess in the underside of the lid, and the recess extends around the perimeter of the underside of the lid. In other instances, the gasket further includes a base or stem region, a first side, and a second side. In certain instances, the base region or stem region can have a plurality of protrusions configured to be inserted into a recess in the underside of the lid. In other instances, the first side may be connected to the base or stem region, and the first side may be substantially perpendicular to the stem or base region (i.e., the first side part is horizontal). In another example, the second side extends away (ie, distally) from one end of the first side at an angle of about 30 degrees to 60 degrees. In other instances, the first side and the second side can form a V-shaped opening or extension, and the V-shaped opening or extension extends distally from the stem. That is, it is configured to extend away from the stem and toward the interior of the insulated container.

In some instances, a gasket for an insulated container can have at least one vent hole. In other instances, the gasket may have at least one vent, where the vent may be configured to extend from an outer edge of the gasket wall to an interior gasket wall. In other instances, the vent can provide a conduit to the interior void of the insulated container. In other examples, the gasket may be substantially square shaped or substantially rectangular shaped, and the gasket may be constructed of flexible PVC.

These features and various other features are more fully described herein.

The invention has been described by way of example and is not limited to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are front and rear perspective views, respectively, of an insulated container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIGS. 2A and 2B are front and rear perspective views, respectively, of an insulated container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. 1B is a perspective view of the insulated container of FIGS. 1A and 1B with a lid portion removed, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein; FIG. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a latching device or mechanism with a cutaway view of an engagement portion in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a latching device or mechanism in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 5 illustrates one hinge configuration in which the lid may be rotated from a closed configuration to an open configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 5 illustrates one hinge configuration in which the lid may be rotated from a closed configuration to an open configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 5 illustrates one hinge configuration in which the lid may be rotated from a closed configuration to an open configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 5 illustrates one hinge configuration in which the lid may be rotated from a closed configuration to an open configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of an insulated container with one exemplary securing portion for securing the lid in an open configuration, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of an insulated container with another exemplary securing portion for securing the lid in an open position in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example configuration of an insulated container with a rotatable lid in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 6 illustrates rotation of a lid from a closed configuration to an open configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 6 illustrates rotation of a lid from a closed configuration to an open configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 6 illustrates rotation of a lid from a closed configuration to an open configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example hinged lid configuration in which the lid may be removably connected to a base of an insulated container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example hinged lid configuration in which the lid may be removably connected to a base of an insulated container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example gasket configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example gasket configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example gasket configuration including various sections of the gasket having a “V-shape” oriented in various directions, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates another gasket configuration that may be used in one or more insulated container configurations in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates another gasket configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates another example gasket configuration that may be used in one or more insulated container configurations in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 15B is an isometric bottom view of the example gasket of FIG. 15A including a mating end of the gasket in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 15A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the example gasket configuration of FIG. 15A in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. 15C is another bottom cross-sectional view of the exemplary gasket shown in FIG. 15C. FIG. 15B is another view illustrating the example gasket configuration of FIG. 15A, in which the gasket is secured into the bottom of the lid of the insulated container and has a "V-shaped" extension pointing toward the base of the insulated container; FIG. . FIG. 3 illustrates another example insulated container having a hinge configuration that allows the lid to be removed from the base in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example method of removing a lid from a base of an insulated container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example method of removing a lid from a base of an insulated container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example method of removing a lid from a base of an insulated container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates another example insulated container with a removable lid in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example of a lid being removed from a base in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example of a lid being removed from a base in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example of a lid being removed from a base in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example hinge insert that may be used in conjunction with one or more hinge configurations in accordance with one or more aspects discussed herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example hinge insert that may be used in conjunction with one or more hinge configurations in accordance with one or more aspects discussed herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example hinge insert that may be used in conjunction with one or more hinge configurations in accordance with one or more aspects discussed herein. FIG. 3 illustrates another example insulated container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates various faucet configurations in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates various faucet configurations in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate various handle configurations that may be used with one or more of the insulated containers described herein. FIGS. FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate various handle configurations that may be used with one or more of the insulated containers described herein. FIGS. FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate various handle configurations that may be used with one or more of the insulated containers described herein. FIGS. FIG. 2 illustrates an example insulated container with an example faucet and faucet guard configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 3 illustrates one example faucet that may be used with one or more aspects described herein. 30 is an exploded view of the example faucet of FIG. 29; FIG. FIG. 3 is a front view of an aperture formed in a portion of a faucet body in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. 30 is a side view of the example faucet of FIG. 29 shown separated; FIG. 1 is a front view of an insulated container with one exemplary faucet and faucet guard configuration assembly described herein; FIG. FIG. 34 is a side view of the insulated container of FIG. 33; FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of an example faucet guard in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 36 is a top view of a portion of the faucet guard shown in FIG. 35; 1 is a front view of an insulated container having a faucet and faucet guard assembly, as well as an exemplary insulated container mount, as described herein; FIG. FIG. 3 illustrates one example insulated container mount that may be used in conjunction with an insulated container according to one or more aspects discussed herein. 39 is a left side view and a right side view showing the insulated container of FIG. 38. FIG. FIG. 39 is a top view of the insulated container mount shown in FIG. 38; FIG. 3 is a front view of the insulated container mount with hook points or flat hooks in the stowed position. FIG. 3 is a side view of an insulated container mount having a flat hook or hook point housed in a loop point or slot. FIG. 3 is a front view of the insulated container mount. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example insulated container mount in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. FIG. 43 is a right side view of the insulated container mount of FIG. 42;

Furthermore, while the drawings may depict various components of a single embodiment to scale, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are not limited to this particular scale.

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to insulated containers configured to store a volume of liquid or other contents. In some instances, the insulated container may be hinged to allow the lid to rotate from a closed position to an open position that is approximately 270 degrees from the closed position, and/or the base of the insulated container may be It can have a lockable lid that can be non-destructively removable from the part (eg, can be removed or replaced). Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container can have a gasket having a V-shaped portion to help ventilate the insulated container. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container can have a handle integrally formed within the base portion of the insulated container. In other instances, an insulated container can have a guard or other device configured to protect a faucet or spout disposed on the insulated container while allowing the faucet to be used. These and various other features and aspects of the insulated container are described more fully herein.

In the following description of various embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part of the invention, and in which is shown by way of illustration various embodiments in which aspects of the disclosure may be practiced. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

1A and 1B depict perspective views of an insulated container 100. FIG. In one example, an insulated container 100 can have a base portion 102 and a lid 104 that can be non-destructively removably coupled to the base portion in some examples. Base portion 102 may be an insulating structure that forms a void for containing a liquid, as discussed more fully herein. In some instances, base portion 102 may be cubic or substantially cubic in shape. In other examples, the shape of the base portion 102 may be prismatic or substantially prismatic (eg, a polygonal prism, a hexagonal prism, a heptagonal prism, etc.). In other examples, the shape of base portion 102 may be substantially cylindrical, or base portion 102 may have a substantially trapezoidal cross-section. Various other shapes may be used without departing from the invention.

Base portion 102 can have a first end 106 having a bottom surface 108. A bottom surface 108 may be configured to support the insulated container on a surface, such as a table, the ground, or a vehicle bed. In some instances, the bottom surface has a shape configured to accommodate an installation structure, such as to facilitate installing and/or securing the insulated container 100 relative to a truck bed, etc. Can be done. For example, the cutout 107 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B may be configured to align with mounting structure located within the vehicle bed portion to assist in securing the insulated container 100 to the vehicle bed portion. Can be done.

Base portion 102 further has a second end 110 defining an opening 112 (shown in FIG. 2) that may be used to fill the insulated container. When the insulated container is in use (eg, when the insulated container is in a closed configuration), the opening 112 may be covered by the lid 104. The base portion 102 can further have a plurality of side portions 114 connected to the bottom surface that define a void for receiving liquid within the insulated container 102. Side portions 114 may be configured to extend generally perpendicularly from the bottom surface.

In some configurations, one or more handles 190 may be disposed within one or more side portions 114 (or other areas of base portion 102). The handle may be integrally molded with the base portion 102 and generally be an undercut formed in the side portions 114 of the base 102. In some instances, the undercut forming the handle can have a recess extending along substantially all or a majority of the side portion 114, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. This makes it possible to easily manufacture the base 102 with the handle 190 integrally formed. In some instances, the handle 190 may be flush with the exterior surface of the base 102 to reduce the risk of breakage. These and various other handle structures and configurations are discussed more fully below.

As discussed above, insulated container 100 may be configured to contain, store, transport, etc. a volume of liquid. In some examples, insulated container 100 may be configured to store between 5 gallons and 10 gallons of liquid. In some instances, an insulated container may be configured to store approximately 5 gallons of liquid. In other instances, the insulated container contains at least about 4 gallons of liquid, at least about 3 gallons of liquid, at least about 2 gallons of liquid, or at least about Can be configured to store 1 gallon of liquid. Additionally or alternatively, insulated container 100 may be configured to store solid or gaseous or combination materials without departing from the scope of the disclosure described herein.

In at least some instances, insulated container 100 (and various other containers described herein) may be sized to receive a volume of liquid as described above. For example, the insulated container 100 may have a height between 10 inches (25.4 cm) and 24 inches (61 cm), a width between 10 inches (25.4 cm) and 24 inches (61 cm), and a width between 10 inches (25.4 cm) and 24 inches (25.4 cm). The depth may be between 50.8 cm (20 inches) and 50.8 cm (20 inches).

The insulated container 100 can have a lid 104. In some configurations, the lid 104 may be connected to the base 102 using a press fit in the closed position. Additionally or alternatively, other securing systems or devices may be used to secure lid 104 to the base, as discussed more fully herein.

In some instances, the lid 104 is hinged such that it is connected (removably or permanently) to the base 102 at a hinge 116 and can be rotated about the hinge 116. It's fine. The hinge may be one of various types of hinges, including continuous piano hinges, double hinges, ball joint hinges, and living hinges. These hinge configurations and various other hinge configurations may be more fully discussed herein. A hinge 116 may allow the lid 104 to be opened and rotated away from the base portion 102, thereby allowing access to the void defined by the base portion 102 (e.g., opening 112). That is, the hinges can move the insulated container from a closed configuration (e.g., when the lid is in a position covering the air gap formed by the base) to an open configuration (e.g., when the lid does not cover the air gap formed by the base). , and vice versa.

In the configurations described herein, the base 102 and lid 104 can have an exterior surface or shell 117 that surrounds and surrounds the insulation portion 118, as shown in FIG. Shell 117 is typically formed from a variety of materials, such as one or more metals, alloys, polymers, ceramics, or fiber reinforced materials. In some instances, shell 117 may be formed of a plastic material, such as polyurethane, that is molded to form both base portion 102 and lid portion 104. In some instances, insulating portion 118 is formed of an insulating material that exhibits low thermal conductivity. For example, insulating portion 118 may be formed of (or filled with) a polymeric foam, such as a polyurethane foam. Additional or other insulation materials may be used without departing from the invention. In some configurations, base portion 102 and lid portion 104 are formed using a rotational molding process as would be understood by those skilled in the art (not shown). However, various other types of molding or other manufacturing processes (eg, stamping, casting, forging, etc.) may be utilized to form the insulated container without departing from the invention.

In some instances, lid 104 may be configured to remain connected to base portion 102 in both open and closed configurations. For example, lid 104 may be secured or locked in the closed position using latching device 120. Latch device 120 may be a variety of types of latches, including a t-latch having a latch portion and a keeper portion, as well as various other types of latches.

For example, one exemplary latching device 120 that may be used with insulated container 100 is described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. The latch device 120 shown and described is just one example latch that may be used, and a variety of other types of latches may be used without departing from the invention.

FIG. 3 is a top view of an exemplary latching device 120, including a cutaway view of the engagement portion. Latch device 120 has a latch portion 122 and a keeper portion 140. In the configuration shown, keeper 140 has two portions extending along opposite sides of stem 126 of latch 122. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the latch 122 is connected to the lid 104 while the keeper 140 is connected to the base 102. However, in some instances, latch 122 may be connected to base 102 while keeper 140 is connected to lid 104. Therefore, the latch 122 and the keeper 140 can be replaceably arranged on both sides of the insulating container 100.

3 and 4, latch 122 is configured to be releasably engageable with latch keeper 140 such that when latch 122 is in engaged relationship with keeper 140, opposing lid portion 104 and base portion 102 is maintained in a closed, fixed, and/or sealed position. In some configurations, the latch 122 includes a latch base 130, a stem or body portion 126 extending from the latch base 130, an engagement portion 128 extending from the body portion 126, and an engagement portion 128 extending from the engagement portion 128. It has a grip portion 124 . In other words, latch base 130 of latch 122 is disposed on one end of latch 122 while gripping portion 124 is disposed on the opposite distal end of latch 122. Engagement portion 128 is configured for locked mating relationship with a recessed pocket or notch area 142 of latch keeper 140, as discussed in more detail below.

Latch device 120 further includes a latch slot 145. A latch slot 145 may be integrally formed into the surface of the lid 104. Latch slot 145 is configured to receive latch 222. For example, when latch 122 is engaged with latch keeper 140, at least a portion of latch base 130 of latch 122 is received within latch slot 145.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the latch 122 is typically flexible, extensible, and resilient, such that the latch 122 is pivotally attached to the lid portion 104 of the container 100 and received within a concave elongated latch slot 145. The concave elongated latch 145 is typically molded integrally with the container 100. Latch 122 may be molded as a single piece construction from a rubber material as would be understood by those skilled in the art. The latch 122 is formed or made of a plastic material or from another suitable material that can be formed or molded into a suitable shape and thus maintain its formed shape. can be formed. The latch 122 is constructed of an appropriate size, thickness, and material configuration to withstand the stresses of repeated cycles over time as the latch is engaged/disengaged from the latch keeper 140. It can be done. In either case, the material of construction is an extensible and/or elastic material (e.g., EPDM or neoprene rubber) so that in order to engage or disengage latch keeper 140, When the latch 122 is extended or stretched to the extended position, the latch 122 is forced into its original extension without substantially deforming in order to maintain sufficient tension for the purpose of maintaining the closed position. rebound or otherwise return to a non-stretched or partially stretched state. In other words, after the latch 120 is bent, stretched, or compressed, it also recoils or springs back to its original shape or nearly its original shape, even in the unstretched position. or otherwise return to its original shape or nearly its original shape.

In some configurations, latch 122 is configured to extend gripping portion 124 from body portion 126 at an angle away from the plane of latch 122. This angle between gripping portion 124 and body portion 126 may assist or facilitate grasping of latch 122 by a user. At this angle, a user can easily slide his or her fingers between the gripping portion 124 of the insulated container 100 and the side of the base portion 102 when disengaging the latch 122 from the keeper 140. Additionally, because the latch 122 is made from a resilient material, it will not easily dislodge or break even though it extends from the body of the container.

The gripping portion 124 is generally shaped to be easily gripped by a user, and as shown, the gripping portion 124 is T-shaped to facilitate gripping by the user. It is formed like this. Although not intended to be limiting, other shapes contemplated for gripping portion 124 include a y-shape and a tab shape (not shown), or extending from an engagement portion that can be gripped for operation of the latch. Includes small flap materials that exist.

Turning to another feature of latch mechanism 120, a latch keeper 140 is integrally molded within base portion 102. Latch keeper 140 has an elongated keeper slot 141 and a recessed pocket 142 formed within the elongated keeper slot 141. A recessed pocket 142 is typically configured to receive the engagement portion 128 of the latch 122 and a keeper slot 141 is typically configured to receive the body portion 126 of the latch 122.

In some instances, the body portion 126 of the latch 122 is formed with an inverted triangular cross-sectional shape 143, and the elongated keeper slot 141 of the latch keeper 140 further has a complementary shape that fits into the body portion 126 of the latch 122. It is formed/molded into a triangular shaped receiving part. In embodiments, latch 122 establishes a friction fit with elongated keeper slot 141 when latch 122 is seated/received within elongated keeper slot 141 . Similarly, body portion 126 and elongate keeper slot 141 may be formed into complementary three-dimensional pyramidal, square, or rectangular shapes (not shown).

In some instances, the engagement portion 128 of the latch 122 may be formed to be ball-shaped, and the concave pocket 142 of the latch keeper 140 may have a complementary shape to receive the ball-shaped engagement portion 128. It is configured as a socket 142. Thus, when the engagement portion 128 seats within the concave pocket 142, the parts are mechanically coupled and the contact area between the surfaces of the parts is increased, further thereby creating a closed and/or sealed position. guaranteed to be maintained. It is also contemplated that the engagement portion can take any shape that is easily received by a reciprocatingly shaped concave pocket formed within the latch keeper. For example, the engagement portion can be formed into any geometric shape, such as triangular and square. Accordingly, the concave pocket of latch keeper 140 will have a corresponding configuration capable of receiving the shaped engagement portion. In other words, the engaging portion of the latch and the concave pocket of the latch keeper are shaped to matingly join together. Accordingly, the concave pocket has a shape configured to receive the engagement portion while providing sufficient surface-to-surface contact area to remain closed.

More specifically, in some configurations, the latch is an integral ball and socket latch system for the insulated container 100. A precise fit for the ball-shaped engagement portion 128 to be molded onto the extensible rubber latch 122 with a T-shaped end so that the latch keeper 140 becomes part of the mold of the insulated container 100. Designed to be an exact fit. This combination provides a strong and very secure lid latch system.

FIG. 3 shows the latch device 120 in the closed position, whereas FIG. 4 shows the latch device 120 in the open position. When in the closed position, a latching device 120 is arranged to abut the lid 104 against the base 102 of the insulated container 100, thereby closing, securing, and/or sealing the container. When disengaging the latch device 120, the gripping portion 124 is pulled/extended generally downwardly toward the base 102 of the container 100. In other words, the body portion 126 of the latch 122 extends to disengage the engagement portion 128 from the latch keeper 140. When the engagement portion is released from the latch keeper 140, the latch 122 swings upwardly away from the container.

Similarly, to close the container 100, the latch 122 is moved in an arc downwardly toward the container 100. When movement of the latch 122 reaches the latch keeper 140, the latch 122 extends/extends again downwardly towards the base 102 and the body portion 126 of the latch 122 seats within the keeper slot 141/keeper slot 141. It is disposed within slot 141 and is preferably a friction fit as described above. Further, when in the seated position, the body portion 126 of the latch 122 may be largely concave within the latch slot 145 and the keeper slot 141, and in some instances extend beyond the surface thereof. Or not prominent. When the stretching force is removed from the latch 122, the latch is free to return to its previous state, thereby causing the engagement portion 128 of the latch 122 to move into the concave pocket 142 of the latch keeper 140. can be seated and received, thereby closing the latch mechanism. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the latch 122 is made of and sized such that in the closed/seated position it will retain sufficient force to maintain the container in the closed position. It is determined. In other words, a constant amount of tension is maintained on the latch 122 in the closed position. This is because the latch 122 does not fully return to its extended position/state. In the closed position, the engagement portion 128 of the latch 122 is received within the concave pocket 142 of the keeper slot 140. In some example configurations, engagement portion 128 is sized and shaped to maximize contact with concave pocket 142 to thereby ensure a closed condition that can be easily maintained.

With further reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2, when the lid 104 is opened (e.g., to allow access to the internal cavity formed by the base 102), the hinged lid 104 is removed from the base portion 102. The lid can be rotated apart and rested along the rear side 114 of the base portion 102 (e.g., the lid can be rotated 270° from the closed configuration (the position shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B) to the open configuration). ). In some configurations, the fully open position or open configuration is at least a portion of the top exterior surface of the lid 104 relative to the aft side portion 114 (or other side portion) of the base portion 102 of the insulated container 100. may include a state in which the

For example, FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate one example rotation of the lid 104 relative to the base portion 102 from a closed position or configuration (FIG. 5A) to a fully open position or configuration (FIG. 5D). For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, lid 104 is in a substantially closed position. That is, the lid 104 is substantially perpendicular to the base 102 and covers the opening (not shown in FIG. 5A). To open the lid 104 and thereby access the void defined by the base 102 of the insulated container 100, the lid 104 may be lifted upwardly in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 5A.

The lid 104 can then be rotated about the hinge 116 as shown in FIG. 5B. That is, the lid 104 is now shown at an angle relative to its previous vertical position (as shown in FIG. 5A), thereby illustrating the lid 104 being opened. The lid 104 can continue to rotate about the hinge 116 as shown in FIGS. 5C and 5D until the lid 104 is in the fully open position shown in FIG. 5D. When in the fully open position, at least a portion of the top exterior surface 118 of the lid 104 may contact the rear side 114 of the insulated container 100. In some instances, the fully open position or configuration may be 270 degrees from the closed position.

In some instances, when in the fully open position, the lid 104 may be held in place by one or more locking or latching mechanisms or devices in the fully open position. 6 and 7 illustrate several example latching systems that may be used to hold lid 104 in a fully open position. The insulated containers 200 and 300 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 may each be substantially similar to the insulated container 100 (or various other insulated containers described herein), and the insulated containers 100 or 300 shown in FIGS. It may have some or all of the features described in connection with any other insulated container described herein.

FIG. 6 illustrates one configuration in which the insulated container 200 has a latching device similar to that discussed in connection with FIGS. 3 and 4. That is, a latching device has a keeper on the front portion of the container (eg, similar to the container 100 shown in FIG. 1 with a latching device for securing the lid 104 in the closed position). Additionally, a second set of keepers 240 are disposed on the rear or rear side 214 of the base 202 (e.g., the side that receives the lid 204 when open), as shown in FIG. obtain. Thus, when the lid 204 is in the fully closed position, the engaging portion of the latch (not shown) will be received within and engaged with a keeper formed in the forward portion of the insulated container. When the lid 204 is in the fully open position (as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B), the engagement portion of the latch (not shown) is located within the keeper 240 formed on the rear side 214 of the base 202. 204, thereby maintaining the position of the lid 204 (eg, securing the lid 204 relative to the rear side 214 of the base 202).

Similar to the configurations discussed above, keeper 240 may be molded to be incorporated into base 202. A process similar to that described above may be used to engage/disengage the latch with the keeper 240 (e.g., when engaged with the keeper, the gripping portion is pulled downward and rotated upward). when the gripping portion is rotated downwardly toward the container and extended downwardly to engage the keeper).

FIG. 7 shows another exemplary configuration in which an insulated container 300 with a lid 304 may be secured in both open and closed configurations. Similar to other configurations discussed herein, insulated container 300 has a lid 304 and a base 302. Lid 304 and base 302 can have one of a variety of types of securing configurations for securing lid 304 to base 302 when lid 304 is in a closed configuration. Additionally or alternatively, the insulated container 300 can have an open configuration latching system having a plurality of magnets 350a, 350b. A first magnet 350a may be disposed on the top exterior surface 303 of the lid 304. When the lid 304 is in the fully open position, a second magnet 350b may be positioned on the rear side 314 of the base 302 at a location that corresponds to the location of the first magnet 350a. Thus, when the lid 304 is in the fully open position (e.g., rotated approximately 270 degrees from the closed position), the first magnet 350a and the second magnet 350b can be in close proximity to each other and the magnetic force (i.e., can be magnetically attached to each other to secure the lid 304 in the open configuration). The magnetic force may be strong enough to secure the lid 304 in a fully open position relative to the base 302. However, the force applied to the lid 304 (e.g., an outward and/or upward force away from the base 302) may be of sufficient magnitude to overcome the magnetic force, allowing the lid 304 to move to the closed position if desired. Can be rotated. Although the configuration of FIG. 7 has a first magnet 350a disposed on the lid 304, in some configurations substantially the entire exterior surface 304 of the lid 304 may be magnetic. Therefore, in such a configuration, the arrangement or position of magnet 350b may vary. The reason is that a larger portion of the surface may be available to be engaged by magnet 350b. In some instances, the magnets 350a, 350b may also be used to display a logo or name of the company or manufacturer of the insulated container (e.g., a magnetic plate capable of displaying the logo or name may be used). ).

The configurations of FIGS. 6 and 7 are merely some example fixed configurations. Various other types of configurations may also be used to secure the lid in the open configuration without departing from the invention. For example, a protrusion (eg, male portion) may be disposed on the exterior surface of the lid and received within a corresponding recess (eg, female portion) formed on the rear side of the base. In the open configuration, the protrusion may be received within the recess and the lid may be secured via a snap fit. When returning the lid to the closed configuration, the lid may be pulled away from the base to overcome the snap fit. In some instances, a protrusion may be formed on the base, whereas a corresponding recess may be formed in the lid.

The configuration described herein, which allows the lid of an insulated container to be secured in both open and closed configurations, allows the insulated container to be used in a variety of formats without concerns about the lid falling, being lost, etc. It can be done. For example, an insulated container may be secured in the bed of a vehicle such as a pickup truck. When actuated, the lid may be secured in either the open or closed configuration, thereby ensuring that the lid cannot be lost due to wind, driving conditions, etc.

FIG. 8 shows another exemplary configuration of an insulated container 400 with a rotatable lid. As shown in FIG. 8, the insulated container 400 can have a double hinge configuration. That is, each hinge 406a, 406b can have two pivot points that allow the lid 404 to be opened and closed relative to the base 402. For example, the lid 404 can pivot about point 408 (shown on hinge 406b and further on hinge 406a) and also about point 410 (shown on hinge 406b and further on hinge 406a). 9A-9C illustrate rotation of lid 404 from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

For example, FIG. 9A shows lid 404 in a closed configuration relative to base 402. FIG. 9B shows the lid 904 partially open relative to the base 402. Lid 404 has been rotated in the direction of arrow 405 from a closed configuration to an open configuration. FIG. 9C shows the lid 404 in a fully open position relative to the base 402. The lid 404 is further rotated in the direction of arrow 407, and the lid 404 is open. In some instances, the lid 404 can be rotated from a closed configuration (eg, as shown in FIG. 9A) through an arc between 90° and 270° to an open position. In some configurations, hinges 406a, 406b may be configured to help maintain lid 404 in an open position relative to base 402.

Although the various configurations discussed herein have a lid that is rotatable from a closed configuration to an open configuration and can be secured in either configuration, in some instances the lid may be non-destructively removed from the insulated container. It may be possible. 10A and 10B illustrate one example hinged lid configuration in which the lid may be removably connected to the base of the insulated container.

FIG. 10A shows a portion of the insulated container 500. Insulated container 500 may be substantially similar to various other insulated containers (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, etc.) described herein and may be related to one or more other insulated containers. may have one or more of the features described above. In the closed configuration of FIG. 10A, removable lid 504 is shown substantially perpendicular to base 502. Accordingly, when opening the lid 504 (and subsequently removing the lid 504 from the base 502), the lid 504 may be rotated in the direction of arrow 505 in FIG. 10B.

In some configurations, the lid 504 is rotated until the first fixed portion 570 (e.g., the end point of the fixed portion 570) is separated from the second fixed portion 572 (e.g., the end point of the second fixed portion 572). can be rotated about hinge 516. At this point, the lid 504 can be lifted upwardly in the direction of arrow 507 to completely detach or remove the lid 504 from the base 502. When replacing the lid 504, the lid 504 may be lowered toward the base 502 until the first fixed portion 570 is aligned with and/or contacts the second fixed portion 572. Once the first and second fixed portions are aligned and/or in contact, the lid 504 may be rotated downwardly toward the base 502 as shown by arrow 505.

In some configurations, the lid 504 that is non-destructively removable from the base 502 of the insulated container can have one or more of the latching or securing configurations discussed above. For example, the lid 504 may be removable from the base 502, but a user may desire to secure the lid 504 to the base 502 in the open configuration. Accordingly, the lid 504 can have latches or magnets (discussed above in connection with the respective lids 504, 504 of FIGS. 6 and 7) to secure the lid 504 to the panel of the base 502 (FIG. and 7)).

Optionally, in some instances, one or both of the first fixed portion 570 and the second fixed portion 572 can have a protrusion or stop 575. A protrusion may be configured to prevent lid 504 from rotating past a stop point and from inadvertently detaching from base 502. Thus, in a configuration with a stop, the lid 504 can be rotated to a point such that it engages the stop 575, and if the user desires to remove the lid 504, the user must be able to overcome the stop. and additional force can then be applied to remove the lid 504 from the base 502.

Additionally, in some configurations, the insulated container can have a gasket or other sealing device. A gasket may be disposed within the lid or base to assist in sealing the lid and base when the lid is in the closed configuration. In some instances, a gasket can be seated within a recess formed in and extending around the periphery of at least one of the base and the lid. A gasket can help maintain the temperature of the liquid contained within the insulated container. One example gasket configuration is shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. However, this and various other gasket configurations may be used with any of the insulated containers described herein.

As shown, a gasket 560 is disposed within a recess or channel 564 in base 502. Alternatively, gasket 560 may be placed within a recess or channel formed in lid 504. When the lid 504 is in the closed configuration, a protrusion 562 having a shape corresponding to the recess 564 can contact the gasket 560 and compress the gasket 560 to help seal the lid and base in the closed configuration. be able to. In some configurations, gaskets are a strategy that can reduce or eliminate the need for vents (e.g., vents to prevent the lid from locking), as will be discussed more fully later. It is possible to have a cutout portion located at a central location.

In some instances, the gasket may be a conventional gasket having a substantially circular cross section. In other instances, the gasket can have a particular cross-section configured to help ventilate the insulated container. One example configuration is shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B. The gaskets 600a, 600b shown have a base region 602 that can be received within a recess 604 in either the lid 606 or the base 608 of the insulated container. A gasket 600 is connected to the base or stem region 602 and extends outwardly from the recess 604 into the space (where the lid 606 and base 608 meet the insulated container in the closed configuration). It can have a generally V-shaped portion or extension 610.

In some instances, V-shaped portion 610 can extend from base region 602 in a generally horizontal direction. That is, the V-shaped portion 610 can have a "V-shaped" first side 612 that can contact the base or stem region 602 in a substantially horizontal configuration. A "V-shaped" second side 614 can extend from one end of the first side 612 at an angle relative to the first side 612, thereby making these two sides Portions 612, 614 form a V-shaped configuration.

This V-shaped configuration can assist in allowing ventilation to occur within the insulated container when the insulated container is in a closed configuration. In some instances, the V-shaped configuration helps prevent leakage (e.g., water or other liquid) from the insulated container while allowing at least some air to escape from the interior of the insulated container. Can be done. In other examples, gasket 600 can have at least one vent or multiple vents.

As shown in FIG. 11A, the V-shaped portion 610a directs the open areas of the "V" (e.g., the ends of the sides 612 that are not connected to the sides 614) away from the interior 616 of the insulated container. It can be configured as follows. In another example, a "V-shaped" open area 610b can face toward the interior 616 of the insulated container, as shown in FIG. 11B. In other instances, the gasket may be formed in more than one section. These two or more sections can have portions that have a "V-shape" pointing in different directions.

For example, FIG. 12 shows one example gasket configuration in which different sections of the gasket having "V-shapes" oriented in different directions may be used. Figure 12 shows three gasket sections 700a, 700b, 700c. Although three sections are shown, sections 700a and 700c are instead a single gasket piece with section 700a representing one end of the gasket and section 700c representing the other end of the gasket. Please note that it is also good.

In some instances, sections 700a and 700c can have a gasket configuration such that the "V-shaped" portion faces toward the interior of the insulated container (as shown in FIG. 11B), whereas section 700b , can have a gasket configuration such that the "V-shaped" portion faces away from the interior of the insulated container (as shown in FIG. 11A). Alternatively, sections 700a and 700c may have a V-shaped portion pointing away from the interior, while section 700b has a V-shaped portion extending inward.

Although three sections are shown in FIG. 12, more sections may be used in such a configuration. Additional sections may be configured as various patterns of gasket configurations to improve ventilation inside the insulated container without departing from the invention.

FIG. 13 shows another gasket configuration that may be used in one or more insulated container configurations. The gasket shown has a first section 800a and a second section 800b. As discussed above, sections 800a and 800b may be separate, distinct sections of gasket material or may be opposite ends of a single piece of gasket material. In the configuration shown in FIG. 13, the ends 801a, 801b of each section 800a, 800b may be abutted against each other (eg, when the gasket is installed in the lid or base of an insulated container). Tape or other adhesive material 802 may be applied to the gasket to help maintain the position of the gasket ends 801a, 801b. In some instances, adhesive 802 can extend from section 800a to section 800b and can span abutting ends 801a, 801b.

FIG. 14 shows another exemplary gasket configuration. Similar to the configuration of FIG. 13, the gasket can have a first section 900a and a second section 900b, and the first section 900a and second section 900b can be two separate sections or The ends may be a single section of gasket material. Unlike the configuration of FIG. 13 in which the ends of each section are in contact, the end 901a of section 900a and the end 901b of section 900b are not in contact. Instead, the ends 901a, 901b are separated from each other to define a gap 904 between each end 901a, 901b of each section 900a, 900b. Similar to FIG. 13, adhesive portion 902 may be used to help maintain the position and/or configuration of the gasket. An adhesive portion 902 can extend from section 900a to section 900b and can span ends 901a, 901b as well as gap 904. This configuration can help provide a means of ventilation for the interior of the insulated container.

15A-15E illustrate another exemplary gasket configuration configured to seal the lid 1606 to prevent liquid spillage, in which the insulated container is further attached to the insulated container mount 1810. are configured to be installed in pairs on this insulated container mount 1810. Similar to the above example, the insulated container 1800 can have a faucet 1880, a gasket 1560, and a lid 1606 that can be non-destructively removably coupled to the insulated container 1800 in accordance with the disclosure herein.

FIG. 15A shows another exemplary gasket. Gasket 1560 has a mating end 1902 and at least one vent hole 1904. In some configurations, the vent 1904 reduces or eliminates the need for a vent to prevent locking of the lid due to pressure changes inside and outside the insulated container. Vent holes 1904 may be configured to allow air or fluid to exit or enter the internal void of the insulated container 1800, thereby equalizing the internal pressure of the insulated container with atmospheric or external pressure. . In other examples, gasket 1560 can have multiple vents 1904. In other configurations, gasket 1560 can have three vents. In other configurations, the gasket 1560 can have a forward vent 1906. A front vent 1906 may be located on the side of the insulated container from which the lid 1804 can be opened. In other configurations, the front vent 1906 may actually be configured on the back side of the insulated container 1800, at which the lid 1804 is coupled to the insulated container 1800. When gasket 1560 is installed in an insulated container, vent holes 1902 may be configured on the side of insulated container 1800. Gasket 1560 may have a substantially square shape or a substantially rectangular shape. Gasket 1560 can have a corresponding shape that follows the opening of the insulated container, for example opening 112.

As shown in FIGS. 15B-15E, gasket 1560 has a unique profile or cross-section configured to help ventilate the insulated container. Gasket 1560 can have a base or stem region 1602 that can be received or secured within a recess 1604 in either the lid 1606 or the base 1608 of the insulated container. In some configurations, the recess 1604 extends around the entire underside of the lid 1606 or along the top side of the base 1608. A gasket 1560 is connected to the base or stem 1602 and extends outwardly from the recess 1604 into the space (where the lid 1606 and base 1608 meet the insulated container in the closed configuration) in a V-shaped or substantially It can have a V-shaped portion or extension 1610. This V-shaped configuration with at least one or more vent holes 1904 can help enable ventilation within the insulated container when the insulated container is in a closed configuration. In other instances, the V-shaped configuration helps prevent leakage (e.g., water or other liquid) from the insulated container while allowing at least some air to escape from the interior 1616 of the insulated container. be able to. As shown in FIG. 15E, vent holes 1904 are provided to allow air to escape from the interior 1616 or into the interior 1616 of the insulated container for the purpose of equalizing pressure and preventing lid locking. A channel 1622 is provided through the base or stem region 1602 to allow entry of the stem region. In some configurations, vent holes 1904 extend from the outer edge of the gasket wall to the inner gasket wall forming channel 1622. In other configurations, the vents 1904 and channels 1622 allow fluid (e.g., air, water, or other fluid). In other instances, vents 1904 and channels 1622 are configured to provide a conduit to the interior 1616 of the insulated container.

In some instances, the V-shaped portion or extension 1610 can have a "V-shaped" first side 1612 that can contact the base or stem region 1602 in a substantially horizontal configuration. can. A base or stem region 1602 is substantially perpendicular to the first side 1612. A "V-shaped" second side 1614 can extend distally or away from one end of the first side 1612 at an angle 1618 such that the two sides 1612 and 1614 to form a V-shaped configuration. A V-shaped portion or extension 1610 can generally extend away from or opposite (ie, distally) the base or stem portion 1602. In some instances, angle 1618 may be approximately 30 degrees to 60 degrees when the container is in the open configuration. In another example, angle 1618 may be approximately 45 degrees when the container is in the open configuration. In other configurations, the base or stem region 1602 can have multiple projections 1620. In some instances, a protrusion 1620 extends along the entire underside perimeter of the lid 1606 or along the top side of the base 1608 for the purpose of assisting in securing the gasket 1560 within the insulated container. and a groove or recess 1604 configured to be inserted therein. Additionally, gasket 1560 can have at least one bonding end 1902 or multiple bonding ends 1902.

As shown in FIG. 15E, a gasket 1560 is disposed within a recess or channel 564 within base 502. Alternatively, gasket 560 may be placed within a recess or channel formed in lid 504. When the lid 504 is in the closed configuration, a protrusion 562 having a shape corresponding to the recess 564 can contact the gasket 560 and compress the gasket 560 to help seal the lid and base in the closed configuration. Can assist. In some configurations, gaskets are strategically placed that can reduce or eliminate the need for vents (e.g., vents to prevent lid locking), as will be discussed more fully later. It can have a notch in which it is arranged.

This alternative V-shaped configuration incorporating at least one vent hole can help enable ventilation within the insulated container when the insulated container is in a closed configuration. In some instances, this V-shaped configuration allows at least some air to escape from the interior of the insulated container through the at least one vent hole or vent holes. It can help prevent leaks (eg, water or other fluids). In other instances, the gasket is formed from plastic, rubber, silicone, flexible PVC, or other similar materials.

In other configurations, the V-shaped portion or extension 1610 may be configured to direct the open area of the "V" away from the interior 1616 of the insulated container. In another example, the open area of the "V" can face into the interior 1616 of the insulated container, as shown in FIG. 15E. In other instances, the gasket may be formed in more than one section. These two or more sections can have portions that have a "V-shape" pointing in different directions.

The gasket configurations shown in FIGS. 11-15 may be used as shown in each figure or in combination with each other without departing from the invention.

Additionally or alternatively, various other vent configurations may be used without departing from the invention. For example, a portion of the base can include a material that is permeable to air but not water or other liquids. This mesh material can allow ventilation without spilling the liquid contained within the insulated container.

FIG. 16 illustrates another example insulated container 1000 having a hinge configuration that allows the lid 1004 to be removed from the base 1002. The configuration shown in FIG. 16 is merely one example of a quick release configuration that may be used with one or more aspects of the insulated containers described herein.

As shown in FIG. 16, the insulated container 1000 has two hinged portions 1006. Hinge portion 1006 is more clearly shown in FIGS. 16A-16C. However, the hinge portion can have an attachment member 1008 connected to a rod or axel 1010. A bar or axle can extend across at least a portion of the top rear portion of the insulated container 100. In some instances, a bar or axle 1010 can extend across the entire top rear portion of the insulated container 100.

16A-16C illustrate one example method of removing the lid 1004 from the base 1002 of the insulated container 1000. For example, FIG. 16A shows lid 1004 in a generally closed configuration relative to base 1002. When the lid 1004 is pushed upwardly away from the base 1002 as shown in FIG. 16B, the attachment member 1008 can rotate about the rod or axle 1010. The lid 1004 can continue to rotate until it is pulled toward the rear of the insulated container and removed from the base as shown in FIG. 16C.

FIG. 17 shows another example of an insulated container 1100 with a removable lid. As shown in FIG. 17, the insulated container has a lid 1104 that is configured to rotate about a rod or axle 1110. Upon reaching a certain point during rotation, the lid 1104 may be removed from the base 1102, as shown in FIGS. 18A-18C.

For example, FIG. 18A shows 1104 in a closed configuration relative to base 1102. In FIG. 18B, lid 1104 has been moved upwardly in the direction of arrow 1105, thereby causing it to rotate about axle 1110. Upon reaching a predetermined point during rotation, the lid 1104 can be pulled towards the front portion of the insulated container (in the direction of arrow 1107) and thereby removed from the base 1102 as shown in FIG. 18C.

19-21 illustrate one example hinge insert 1250 that may be used in conjunction with one or more hinge configurations discussed herein.

FIG. 22 depicts another insulated container 1300 with various advantageous features. The insulated container 1300 may be similar to other insulated containers described herein (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, etc.) and other insulated containers described in connection with the insulated containers described herein. may have one or more of the following characteristics. For example, an insulated container 1300 has a lid 1304 and a base 1302. A lid 1304 may be secured to the base 1302 using a latching arrangement 1320, similar to the configurations discussed above. Further, the lid 1304 may be rotatable and/or removable relative to the base as discussed herein.

The insulated container 1300 can have a spigot 1380. A faucet 1380 can protrude from the base 1302 and can be configured to dispense liquid stored within the insulated container. Faucet 1380 can have a valve so that liquid is contained within the insulated container until such time as the user desires to dispense a portion of the liquid (e.g., a valve that defaults to the off position). ). After this, the valve may be opened to allow liquid to flow through faucet 1380. Once the desired amount of liquid has been dispensed, the valve may be closed, preventing further liquid from being dispensed. In some instances, faucet 1380 can have an indicator, such as a color indicator, a sound indicator, etc., to indicate that the faucet is on. A wide variety of faucet configurations may be used with the insulated container without departing from the invention.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 22, a faucet 1380 may be housed within a recess 1382 formed in the base 1302. To protect faucet 1380 from damage, faucet 1380 may be largely housed within recess 1382. For example, a sufficient impact on faucet 1380 could cause the faucet to crack or shear. Thus, by placing the faucet 1380 within the recess 1382, a large portion of the faucet 1380 may be protected by the portion of the base 1302 that surrounds the faucet 1380. In some instances, 100% of the faucet 1380 (the entire faucet) may be housed within the recess 1382 such that no portion of the faucet 1380 extends beyond the exterior surface of the base 1302. In other instances, at least 90% of the faucet 1380 may be housed within the recess (up to 10% of the faucet may protrude beyond the exterior wall 1314 of the base 1302), or at least 75% of the faucet 1380 may be housed within the recess. (25% protrudes outwardly from the outer wall 1314); at least 50% may be housed within the recess (50% protrudes outwardly from the outer wall 1314); at least 30% may be housed within a recess (70% protruding outwardly from exterior wall 1314), and so on.

Additionally or alternatively, insulated container 500 can have one or more guards 1384 that can be used to protect faucet 1380. For example, a guard 1384 can extend outwardly from the edge of the recess 1382, past the faucet, and to the opposite edge of the recess 1382. Therefore, any object or force in the direction of faucet 1380 will be obstructed by guard 1382. Guard 1384 can be molded into base 1302 or formed separately from and connected to base 1302. Guard 1384 may be connected to base 1302 using fasteners, snap fits, adhesives, or the like. In some examples, guard 1384 may be formed of various plastics, metals such as aluminum, steel, composite materials, and the like.

In configurations with multiple guards 1384 (such as in FIG. 22), the guards may be configured such that a portion of each guard extends parallel or substantially parallel to the other guards 1384. In some instances, a guard can have one or more sections 1385 extending vertically between parallel guards 1384. This may provide additional protection of the faucet 1380 from small objects such as rocks or stones.

A guard 1384 may be placed around the faucet 1380 so as not to interfere with the operation of the faucet 1380. For example, a user may be able to easily access the valve portion of faucet 1380 to dispense liquid or to stop dispensing liquid. Additionally, in configurations where a user can fill a container, such as a cup or water bottle, from the faucet 1380, the guard 1384 may be placed over the spout portion of the faucet 1380 so as not to interfere with the placement of the container.

23 and 24 illustrate another faucet guard configuration 1394. The faucet 1380 shown can be any suitable type of faucet 580 and can protrude through the sidewall 1330 of the insulated container, as shown in FIG. In some examples, one or more portions of faucet 1380 may be formed of stainless steel, aluminum, composite materials, synthetic materials such as NYLON, and the like.

The faucet configurations shown in Figures 23 and 24 are shown separated. However, the faucet 1380 shown may be used in a variety of types of insulated containers, including the insulated containers described herein.

Still referring to FIG. 23, a faucet guard 1394 projects outwardly from the sidewall 1334 of the insulated container. Faucet guard 1394 has two side portions 1396 extending from sidewall 1330 and a central portion 1398 joining one end of each of the two side portions 1396. In some instances, as shown in FIG. 23, the faucet guard 1394 can have curved portions where the side portions 1396 meet the ends of the central portion 1398. In other configurations, this connection may be established at an angle, such as at a right angle.

A central portion 1398 extends over the top of faucet 1380 to protect faucet 1380 from damage. For example, objects that fall near or are thrown into the insulated container can damage conventionally configured faucets. However, faucet guard 1394 can protect the faucet from objects that could damage the faucet.

In some instances, the faucet guard 1394 may be integrally molded with the sidewall 1330 of the insulated container (eg, a piece with a sidewall or base). In another example, faucet guard 1394 can be formed as a separate piece and joined to sidewall 1330 via fasteners, adhesives, and the like.

In some instances, as discussed above, the insulated container can have one or more handles formed within the base portion. 25-27 illustrate various additional handle configurations that may be used with one or more of the insulated containers described herein. For example, FIG. 25 shows an insulated container 1400 having a handle arrangement 1492 formed within a base 1402. The handle arrangement has an undercut 1492 that is molded into the base portion 1402. Because the undercut handle 1492 is integrally molded with the base 1402, the handle is less susceptible to breakage (i.e., less likely to break) (e.g., if the insulated container is dropped or knocked). case). For example, an undercut handle 1492 is formed flush with the exterior surface of base 1402. Therefore, no portion of handle 1492 projects outwardly from base 1402. Handles that protrude outward from the base may be easily damaged. Although an undercut handle 1492 is shown on one side of the base 1402, a second undercut handle is formed on the opposite side of the base 1402 to also allow for carrying an insulated container. may be done.

In some instances, the insulated container 1400 can have a second handle configuration 1495 in addition to the undercut handle 1492. For example, the insulated container can have an auxiliary handle 1495 that can be a piece formed separately from and connected to the base 1402. In some instances, handle 1495 may be connected to base 1402 at each of two stems 1496 (although only one stem portion is visible in FIG. 25, a second stem portion may be connected opposite crossbar 1497). (may extend from the side end). The two stem portions may be connected by a crossbar 1497 that may form a finger engaging portion. A handle 1495 can pivot relative to the base 1402 so that, when not in use, the handle can be received within a recess 1498 formed in the sidewall of the base 1402. In use, the handle 1495 can be rotated outwardly from the recess 1498 so that a user can grasp the crossbar 1497 to carry the insulated container.

In some configurations, handle 1495 may be formed from a variety of suitable materials, such as one or more plastics. For example, handle 1495 can have a core formed of polyvinyl chloride and an outer portion formed of ethylene vinyl acetate. Although the handle 1495 is shown as having a rigid structure in FIG. 25, in some configurations the handle 1495 may have less structure and may instead have a durable rope (polyester rope). etc.) may be formed.

Although the configuration of FIG. 25 has both handles 1492 and 1495, in some instances the insulated container 1400 may have only handles 1492 or only handles 1495.

FIG. 26 illustrates another handle configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. Insulated container 1500 may be substantially similar to various other insulated containers described herein and may have one or more features discussed in connection with other insulated containers described herein. can have.

The insulated container 1500 can have an undercut handle 1590 formed in the base 1502. Similar to handle 1492, handle 1590 may be flush with the exterior surface of base 1502 to avoid breakage of the handle. In some configurations, the insulated container 1500 can have an auxiliary handle configuration 1595. Auxiliary handle 1595 may be similar to handle 1495 discussed in connection with FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 shows another insulated container 1600 configuration. The insulated container 1600 may be similar to various other insulated containers described herein and may have one or more of the features described in connection with these insulated containers.

Similar to insulated containers 1400 and 1500 shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, respectively, insulated container 1600 has an undercut handle 1690 as well as an auxiliary handle arrangement 1695. In some instances, the insulated container 1600 can have only an undercut handle 1690.

FIG. 28 illustrates an example insulated container 1700 with an example faucet 1780 and faucet guard 1784 configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. The example faucet 1780 and/or faucet guard 1784 configurations described herein may be used alone or in combination with a variety of different insulated containers shown in the figures or described herein. and is not limited to use only with insulated containers.

Similar to one or more configurations described herein, the insulated container 1700 has a base portion 1702 having a plurality of sides 1714 forming a sidewall structure and a bottom portion (not shown in FIG. 28). Can be done. The sidewall structure and bottom portion forming the base 1702 can define an interior cavity of the insulated container (similar to various other interior cavity configurations discussed herein). The insulated container 1700 can have a lid 1704 in at least some instances. Similar to one or more other configurations described herein, the insulated container 1700 is configured to extend through the side 1714 of the base portion 1702 between the interior cavity of the insulated container 1700 and the exterior of the insulated container 1700. It can have an extending faucet 1780. Faucet 1780 may be configured to permit and/or control the flow of fluid stored within the internal cavity in the insulated container from the internal cavity to the exterior of the insulated container 1700 (e.g., ). Faucet 1780 is discussed more fully in connection with FIGS. 29-32.

As shown in FIG. 32, faucet 1780 can have generally three regions. A first region 1780a can extend outwardly from the exterior of the side 1714 of the insulated container 1700. A second region 1780b can extend through the side 1714 of the insulated container 1700 (eg, may be within the side of the insulated container and thus not generally visible when the faucet 1780 is installed). A third region 1780c can extend inwardly from the interior of the side 1714 of the insulated container toward the interior void of the insulated container.

As shown in FIGS. 29-32, faucet 1780 is configured to be disassembled and removed from the insulated container (eg, for cleaning) and reassembled into insulated container 1700. can be done. For example, faucet 1780 can have a faucet body 1785 with a spout 1782 extending therefrom (eg, downwardly at an angle) for dispensing fluid. Faucet body 1785 may be configured to house multiple portions of a faucet assembly, such as a spring 1786 and a portion of faucet valve rod 1787, during assembly of faucet 1780 within insulated container 1700.

In some instances, a faucet valve rod 1787 (when assembled) can extend through the faucet body and spring 1786 when assembled, and can be threaded into a dispensing button 1781 (e.g., (via the end threaded region 1788 shown in FIG. 30). Button 1781 can have a finger-engaging portion 1781a that a user can depress to dispense fluid. Button 1781 can further have an interior portion 1781b that can be configured to be received within an aperture 1790 formed in the end of faucet body 1785.

In some instances, aperture 1790 can have one or more flat portions (eg, flat portion 1791 shown in FIG. 31) that can prevent button 1781 from rotating during use. For example, during assembly, interior portion 1781b of button 1781 can be received within aperture 1790 and can contact the interior of the aperture, including flat portion 1791. Therefore, any tendency for the button to rotate during use or assembly can be reduced or prevented by the flat portion 1791 contacting the inner portion 1781b of the button 1781. Although one flat portion 1791 is shown, additional flat portions or other shapes that can prevent button 1781 from rotating may be used without departing from the invention.

Consider assembly of faucet 1780 with reference to FIG. As mentioned above, faucet assembly 1780 may be configured to be disassembled and reassembled to enable one or more parts of faucet assembly 1780 to be cleaned. Assembly of faucet 1780 may involve extending faucet valve rod 1787 through wall 1714 of insulated container 1700 and faucet body 1785 and spring 1786 into button 1781. A threaded end 1788 of a threaded valve rod may be threaded into or otherwise connected to button 1781 during assembly. For example, a threaded portion 1788 of faucet valve rod 1787 may be received by a mating threaded portion within button 1781.

A faucet nut 1784 may be connected to the faucet assembly 1780 from inside the insulated container 1700, thereby connecting the faucet 1780. For example, faucet nut 1784 can be screwed onto threaded portion 1783 of faucet body 1785, thereby securing faucet assembly 1780 in place within insulated container 1700. The assembled faucet assembly (shown separated without the insulated container) is shown in FIGS. 29 and 32.

Faucet assembly 1780 and portions thereof may be formed from a variety of suitable materials. For example, one or more configurations of the faucet assembly may be formed of stainless steel, plastic, composite material, or other suitable materials.

Still referring to FIG. 28, the insulated container 1700 can have a faucet card 1794. The faucet guard 1794 shown may be used in combination with the faucet assembly 1780 shown or another faucet assembly, or the like. A faucet guard 1791 may be placed on the same side 1714 of the insulated container as the faucet 1780 to protect the faucet 1780 when subjected to impact forces (e.g., dropped or knocked) in the insulated container 1700. It can be configured as follows. Faucet guard 1794 will be discussed more fully herein in conjunction with FIGS. 33-36.

For example, a faucet guard 1794 may be placed on the side 1714 of the insulated container 1700 at a location near the faucet 1780. In some configurations, faucet guard 1794 can include faucet side guards 1795a, 1795b, and faucet cross guard 1796.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 33 and 34, two faucet sides where faucet guard 1794 is disposed on either side of the faucet area (e.g., the area where faucet 1780 projects from insulated container 1700) It is possible to have side guards 1795a and 1795b. In some instances, faucet side guards 1795a, 1795b may be integrally formed with a base portion (eg, sidewall structure, wall, etc.) of insulated container 1700. For example, faucet side guards 1795a, 1795b may be molded to be incorporated into the sides 1714 of the insulated container 1700 when the insulated container is formed. Thus, in some instances, the faucet side guards 1795a, 1795b may be formed as an integral piece with the base of the insulated container 1700. This can assist in manufacturing insulated containers efficiently. In addition, the faucet side guards 1795a, 1795 can be formed as solid sections of material, or allow for additional insulation to be realized within the void created by the hollow side guards 1795a, 1795b. can be formed as a hollow guard for The faucet side guards 1795a, 1795b may be of a double wall type similar to the double wall configuration used in the base 1702 and/or lid 1704.

As shown in these figures, faucet side guards 1795a, 1795b can project outwardly from the sides 1714 of the insulated container 1700. For example, at least a portion of the faucet side guards 1795a, 1795b can protrude outwardly from the exterior surface of the side 1714 of the insulated container 1700, thereby protecting the faucet 1780 from, for example, shear forces. In some configurations, faucet side guards 1795a, 1795b can protrude between 50 and 60 millimeters outwardly from the exterior surface of side 1714.

In some instances, the faucet side guards 1795a, 1795b may taper from one end of the side faucet guards 1795a, 1795b to the opposite end of the side faucet guards 1795a, 1795b. For example, as shown in at least FIG. It may extend outwardly over a longer distance. This streamlined configuration allows the faucet crossguard 1796 to be received.

For example, as mentioned above, faucet guard 1794 can have faucet cross guard 1796. As shown in these figures, a faucet cross guard 1796 can extend horizontally across the faucet area between the first faucet side guard 1795a and the second faucet side guard 1795b. A faucet crossguard 1796 can protect the faucet from objects falling downward onto the faucet 1780, for example.

In some instances, the faucet crossguard 1796 may be formed as a separate component from the remainder of the insulated container 1700 or the base 1702 of the insulated container 1700. In this case, faucet crossguard 1796 may be connected to base 1702 via one or more fasteners, such as screws or adhesives. For example, a screw or other fastener can extend through an aperture 1797 in the faucet crossguard 1796 to connect the faucet crossguard 1796 to the base 1702 of the insulated container 1700.

Faucet crossguard 1796 may be formed of one or more suitable materials, such as a variety of metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, and the like. In some instances, faucet crossguard 1796 may be formed of one or more plastics or composite materials.

In some instances, a portion of the faucet crossguard 1796 can extend outwardly from the exterior surface of the side 1714 of the insulated container 1700. For example, the faucet crossguard 1796 can have a tapered configuration, where the first end and the second end are substantially flush with the exterior surface of the side 1714, and/or a central portion that contacts the exterior surface of the side portion 1714 and extends between the first end and the second end and projects outwardly away from the exterior surface of the side portion 1714; Often, this creates a gap between the faucet crossguard 1796 and the exterior surface of the side 1714 of the insulated container. In some instances, the exterior surface of side 1714 may correspond to a concave area in which faucet 1780 is placed. Thus, in these example configurations, this gap may be formed between the faucet crossguard 1796 and the concave exterior surface of the side 1714 of the insulated container.

In some instances, this gap may be sized to be large enough to be used as a handle to lift the insulated container 1700. For example, if the distance A between the exterior surface of the central region of faucet cross guard 1796 and the inwardly facing surfaces of the first and second ends of faucet cross guard 1796 is 1.91 cm (0.75 inches) to 2.0 inches. Additionally, in some example configurations, the length B of the central portion of the faucet crossguard 1796 may be between 2 inches and 6 inches.

The faucet and faucet guard configurations may be used in combination with one or more other aspects of various insulated containers, including, for example, the insulated containers described herein. As discussed herein, this faucet configuration allows for easy assembly/disassembly to facilitate faucet cleaning. Additionally, the faucet guard configuration can help prevent or reduce damage to the faucet, such as if the insulated container is knocked, dropped, or otherwise dropped. For example, this shape and location of the faucet side guards can help reduce or prevent damage to the faucet if the insulated container is subjected to side or frontal forces, for example. A faucet crossguard can help prevent or reduce damage to the faucet when the insulated container is subjected to downward and frontal forces along the front surface. The faucet guard configurations described herein can help prevent or reduce damage to the faucet due to additional force or direction of force.

As shown in FIGS. 37-43, other aspects of the present disclosure relate to an insulated container that is configured to mate with and be installed in an insulated container mount 1810. Similar to the examples above, an insulated container 1800 can have a faucet 1880 and a lid 1804 that can be non-destructively removably coupled to the insulated container 1800 in accordance with the present disclosure herein. The base portion 1814 may be an insulating structure that forms a cavity for containing liquid or other contents that are desired to be hot or cold. Also similar to the above example, the insulated container is configured with a faucet guard 1881 and a notch 1811 in the front portion of the mount 1810 for receiving the faucet 1880. In another example, an insulated container may be configured to distribute fluids while secured to an insulated container mount 1810. In another example, an insulated container 1800 is installed on an insulated container mount 1810 and secured in place by one or more hook points or flat hooks 1840. Container mount 1810 provides a flat surface that can be placed on the ground or mounted on, for example, a vehicle or boat. Insulated container 1800 can be placed within or “mated” with container mount 1810.

A container mount 1810 is configured to fit the bottom surface 108 of the insulated container 1800 into a mount 1810 that is specifically shaped to match the profile of the bottom surface 108 of the insulated container 1800. This configuration allows the container 1800 and mount 1810 to be fixedly mated together for the purpose of stabilizing and securing the insulated container 1800. The mount 1810 provides a stable platform, and the insulated container 1800 may be further secured to the mount by straps 1850 that prevent movement of the insulated container 1800. Additionally or alternatively, without the insulated container 1800, the insulated container mount 1810 itself may be secured to a base or surface, such as a boat deck or vehicle floor. Such a configuration allows for easy removal of the insulated container 1800 by an individual, such as from a vehicle, after transport or refilling. Accordingly, this configuration allows an individual to quickly place the insulated container 1800 back into the mount 1810, where the insulated container 1800 can be re-secured for transport. In another example, the strap 1850 is hinged and lockable for the purpose of allowing refilling of the contents of the insulated container or accessing the contents stored within the insulated container while in the installed state. and/or the hinged lockable lid 1804 is attached to the base portion of the insulated container 1800 in a manner that allows the lid 1804 to be rotated from a closed position to an open position that is approximately 270° from the closed position. The insulated container 1800 can be secured to the mount 1810 in a manner that allows it to be non-destructively removed from the mount 1814. Additionally or alternatively, when the mount 1810 matingly secures the insulated container 1800 to the mount 1810, an individual may use a faucet or spout 1880 disposed on the insulated container 1800 to dispense liquid or other liquids. of the fluid. These and various other features and aspects of the insulated container mount are discussed more fully herein.

FIG. 40A depicts the top side of the anchor point 1890, ratchet buckle 1830, hook point or flat hook 1840. In another example, a mount has a plurality of anchor points 1890 configured to receive an insulated container. In this example, four anchor points 1890 are provided, although it is contemplated that more or fewer anchor points 1890 may be included. In some instances, the anchor point is configured to have an anchor point receiving portion 1891. In other configurations, the anchor point and/or anchor point receiving portion may be configured to secure the mount to the platform via bolts, screws, pins, welds, or other securing means. In other instances, the bottom side of the anchor point can include a non-slip type material to prevent the mount from sliding or moving across the platform or ground. In other instances, the anti-slip material includes anti-slip paint, tape or pad, non-slip tape or pad, rubber (e.g., EPDM or neoprene rubber), or other composite or synthetic material. It's fine. In other instances, the anchor points can include a material that reduces platform or ground friction to facilitate movement of the mount. In such a configuration, the mount may or may not be engaged with the insulated container.

FIG. 37 is a front view and FIG. 39 shows right and left side views of the insulated container 1800 installed within the insulated container mount 1810. Additionally, FIG. 40A depicts a top view of the mount 1810 and FIG. 40B depicts the hook point or flat hook 1840 in the slot or loop point 1861 when the insulated container is not tensioned relative to the mount. A front view of the mount is shown with the mount housed. FIG. 40C is a side view of the stowed tie down strap 1850. 41 depicts a front view, FIG. 42 depicts a right top perspective view, and FIG. 43 depicts a right side view of insulated container mount 1810 without insulated container 1800. In certain instances, an insulated container mount 1810 receives a base portion 1814, and the mount 1810 may be cubic or substantially cubic in shape. In other examples, the shape of mount 1810 may be prismatic or substantially prismatic (eg, a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, or a heptagonal prism, etc.). In other examples, the shape of the mount 1810 may be substantially cylindrical, or the mount 1810 may have a substantially trapezoidal cross-section. Various other shapes may be used without departing from the invention. In other instances, the mount is configured to receive an insulated container. Mount 1810 can have a notch 1811 in the front portion of mount 1810 for receiving faucet 1880.

In certain instances, a side portion of the insulated container can have one or more hook point fixture receivers in the form of slots 1820. A hook point fixture or flat hook fixture 1840 located on the tie down strap 1850 is configured to be secured to the hook point fixture receiver or slot 1820, thereby securing the insulated container 1800 to the insulated container. Fixed to mount 1810. The hook point fixture or flat hook fixture 1840 may alternatively be a metal S-hook, a rubber-coated S-hook, a grabber hook, or the like. The hook point fixture or flat hook fixture 1840 may further include a hook point loop 1841 to secure a strap or tie down 1850 to the hook point loop 1841. In other instances, straps or tie downs 1850 include one or more straps or tie downs 1850 for adjusting the length of the straps 1850 and for tensioning the straps 1850 to maintain the insulated container 1800 within the container mount 1810. One or more cam buckles or D-rings 1830 may be included. In some instances, the cam buckle or ratchet buckle 1830 may include a ratchet buckle, an O-ring, a footman loop, a spring pin, a slide, a loop, a strap adjuster, a metal clasp buckle, a snap hook, a hook, a side - Can be a release buckle, tongue buckle, military buckle, aircraft type seat belt buckle, or carabiner. The hook point loop 1841, the hook point or flat hook fixture 1840, and the cam buckle or ratchet buckle 1830 may be made of stainless steel, aluminum, composite materials, and synthetic materials such as plastic or NYLON. can be done. Straps or tie downs 1850 may be formed of synthetic materials such as NYLON, polyester, ribbon, seat belt webbing, tubular webbing, and BioThane. In other instances, flat hooks, tie down straps, and ratchet buckles may be replaced with other devices such as right angle turn fixtures, ball and socket fittings, bungee cords, cables, chains, etc. .

In some instances, the insulated container mount 1810 is configured to allow access to an internal void or chamber of the insulated container while securing the insulated container to the mount. For example, if the mount 1810 is secured to a platform within a vehicle, an individual may still have access to the interior cavity of the insulated container to remove objects from the container or to place objects within the container. In another example, an insulated container is secured to mount 1810 in a manner that allows access to faucet 1880 for dispensing fluid. In another example, as shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, the insulated container mount 1810 includes one or more locks that can be used to secure the mount 1810 to any suitable platform or other object. It has a point 1870. A locking point 1870 is configured to receive a lock, cable, chain, removable fixture, or other means for securing the mount to avoid theft or other loss. The locking point 1870 may be in the form of an elongated slot such that, for example, a lock, cable, chain, removable fixture, or other means can be attached to the locking point 1870 to secure the container mount 1810. can be inserted into the

In another example, mount 1810 has a hook point fixture receiver or slot 1860. As shown in FIGS. 40A-C, a hook point fixture receiver or slot 1860 is configured to allow the strap 1850 to be wrapped over the top of the insulated container 1810 when the container is not in use. A ratchet buckle or cam buckle 1830 is located at the bottom of the mount rather than the side, and a hook point fixture or flat hook fixture 1840 is secured to the hook point fixture receiver 1860. - Configured to have a loop 1841. Figure 43 is a right side view of the insulated container mount. In some instances, the insulated container mount is configured to have a loop point or slot 1861 in the form of an elongated slot configured to receive at least one strap 1850, the strap 1850 attaching the insulated container to the mount. It may be configured to be fixed. When tie down straps 1850 are securing the insulated container to the mount, the tie down straps 1850 extend under and around the mounting plate and at loop points or slots, as shown in FIGS. 39, 42, and 43. It is configured to wrap around the lower part of 1861. In another example, base 1810 has one or more hook point fixture receivers 1860 and one or more locking points 1870.

Also shown in FIG. 42, container mount 1810 can have a base plate 1892 that is integrally installed within a central portion of container mount 1810. A base plate 1892 may be located on top of the base mount 1894 and may protrude upwardly from the base mount. Base plate 1892 may be concave or convex. In one example, base plate 1892 may be integrally molded with container mount 1810 or attached to container mount 1810 by other mechanical fasteners, adhesives, and permanent or removable fastening methods. Can be fixed. In another example, base plate 1892 projects upwardly and is configured to mate with a recess (not shown) located in the bottom of the insulated container. In another example, the base plate 1892 has a logo or trademark embossed, molded, or stamped into the base plate 1892 and/or into the top of the mounting base. Can be done. In another example, the insulated container mount can have sidewalls 1893. In another example, a mount can have multiple anchor points 1890 configured to receive an insulated container. In some instances, the anchor point is configured to have an anchor point receiving portion 1891, as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 42, the anchor point receiving portion 1891 can have a series of concentric cylindrical openings configured to conform to the shape of the bottom surface 108 of the insulated container 1800, so that the container mount When the container is installed relative to 1810, the shape of the anchor point receiving portion 1891 and/or concave or convex base plate 1892 facilitates installing and/or securing the insulated container.

As discussed above, FIGS. 15A-15E illustrate an alternative gasket configuration configured to seal the insulated container 1800 to prevent liquid spillage, where the insulated container further includes: It is configured to be installed in a pair with the insulated container mount 1810. Similar to the above example, an insulated container 1800 can have a faucet 1800, a gasket 1560, and a lid 1804 that can be non-destructively removably coupled to the insulated container 1800 in accordance with the disclosure herein.

The insulated containers described herein have various features that ensure easy and efficient manufacture of the insulated containers while providing durability and abrasion resistance. Insulated containers and various integrally molded features such as handles, faucet recesses, faucet guards, etc. can be advantageous in improving durability and abrasion resistance. Additionally, the various lid configurations described herein can assist in securing the lid to the base in both open and closed configurations to avoid breakage and/or loss of the lid. can assist.

The insulated container mounts described herein may be used to secure the insulated containers described herein to a stable base or other platform. An insulated container mount may be configured to be permanently or temporarily placed at a particular location, such as a vehicle or boat, allowing an individual to place the insulated container into the mount. The insulated container may be permanently or temporarily secured to the mount until such time as the individual may need to remove the insulated container.

This disclosure has been disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various illustrative examples. However, the purpose served by this disclosure is to provide examples of various features and concepts related to this disclosure, not to limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations and modifications can be made to the examples described above without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below.
Embodiment 1
An insulated container,
the insulated container has a base;
The base is
a sidewall structure having a plurality of sides;
a bottom portion connected to a first end of each side of the plurality of sides of the sidewall structure and configured to support the insulated container on a surface;
an opening formed in a second end of each side of the plurality of sides of the sidewall structure opposite the first end of each side of the plurality of sides of the sidewall structure; wherein the opening is configured to allow access to an internal cavity of the insulated container formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion, and the opening is configured to allow access to the internal cavity of the insulated container formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion, and the gasket is configured to an opening configured to seal the opening;
a faucet extending through a first side of the sidewall structure, the faucet configured to dispense fluid stored within the internal cavity;
The faucet is
a faucet body having an outlet for dispensing the fluid;
a threaded valve rod extending through the faucet body, the threaded valve rod having a threaded end configured to mate with a faucet button; a threaded valve rod configured to control fluid flow from the cavity, and wherein the button is connected to the threaded end of the threaded valve rod.
Embodiment 2
The insulated container of embodiment 1, wherein the gasket is substantially square or substantially rectangular in shape.
Embodiment 3
The insulated container of embodiment 1, wherein the gasket further comprises at least one vent.
Embodiment 4
The insulated container of embodiment 1, wherein the gasket is constructed of flexible PVC.
Embodiment 5
The insulated container of embodiment 1, wherein the gasket is secured within a recess on the underside of the lid, the recess extending around the perimeter of the underside of the lid.
Embodiment 6
The gasket further includes a stem, a first side, and a second side;
The stem further includes a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions being configured to be inserted into a recess on the underside of the lid;
a first side connected to the stem, the first side being substantially perpendicular to the stem;
the second side extends from the first side at an angle of about 30 degrees to 60 degrees;
the first side and the second side forming a V-shaped extension;
the V-shaped extension is configured to extend distally from the stem;
The insulated container according to embodiment 1.
Embodiment 7
The insulated container further includes an insulated container mount configured to secure the insulated container, the insulated container mount secured to a platform, and the insulated container mount configured to secure the insulated container to the insulated container. - configured to allow access to the internal cavity when secured to the mount, the insulated container mount further comprising a plurality of anchoring points and a mounting plate, the anchoring points and the mount plate being configured to allow access to the internal cavity; The insulated container of embodiment 1, wherein the plate is configured to receive the insulated container.
Embodiment 8
A gasket for an insulated container,
A stem,
The stem further includes a plurality of protrusions,
The protrusion is configured to be inserted into a recess on the lower side of the lid.
stem and
a first side,
the first side is connected to the stem, and the first side is configured substantially perpendicular to the stem;
a first side;
a second side,
The second side is configured to extend from the first side at an angle of about 30 degrees to 60 degrees, and the first side and the second side are V-shaped. forming an extension;
a second side;
A plurality of ventilation holes,
the vent extends from an outer edge of the gasket wall to an inner gasket wall, the vent providing a conduit to an interior void of the insulated container;
Gasket with multiple ventilation holes.
Embodiment 9
further comprising an insulated container, the insulated container having a plurality of sides forming a sidewall structure, an opening, and a lid, the gasket opening the opening when the lid is in a closed position. The gasket is configured to seal, the gasket is substantially square or substantially rectangular in shape, and the vent is configured to vent the interior void of the insulated container, the interior void comprising: 9. The gasket of embodiment 8, formed by a sidewall structure and a bottom portion of the insulated container when the lid is in the closed position.
Embodiment 10
A container mount for fixing a container,
an installation surface for receiving the container;
a pair of walls extending upward from the installation surface and configured to mate with and engage the container;
a plate extending upwardly from the installation surface and configured to engage an opening in the container;
a pair of straps, each having a hook for engaging a corresponding slot in the container, the mounting surface having an opening for receiving a corresponding protrusion on a bottom surface of the container; further comprising a pair of straps, the straps further having buckles configured to adjust the tension of the straps;
and a plurality of anchoring points for securing the container mount to a surface.
Embodiment 11
the pair of side walls have a U-shaped profile;
the strap extends from the U-shaped profile;
Container mount according to embodiment 10.
Embodiment 12
the wall extends only partially around the mounting surface, the wall extends from the first and second sides of the container mount to a rear portion of the container mount; 11. The container mount of embodiment 10, wherein the wall defines a gap in the rear portion of the container mount and an opening in the front portion of the container mount.
Embodiment 13
11. The container mount of embodiment 10, wherein the plate and the wall define an open channel for receiving the container.
Embodiment 14
11. The container mount of embodiment 10, wherein the anchorage points are configured to secure the container mount to a platform by bolts, screws, pins, or other securing means.
Embodiment 15
11. The container mount of embodiment 10 further comprising a notch in the front portion.
Embodiment 16
the wall extends only partially around the mounting surface, the wall extends from the first and second sides of the container mount to a rear portion of the container mount; 11. The container mount of embodiment 10, wherein the wall defines a gap in the rear portion of the container mount and an opening in the front portion of the container mount.
Embodiment 17
11. The container mount of embodiment 10, wherein the plate and the wall define an open channel for receiving the container.
Embodiment 18
A faucet for dispensing fluid, the faucet comprising:
a faucet body having an outlet for dispensing the fluid, the faucet body further comprising a spring disposed within the faucet body, the spring being adapted to be activated by a faucet button for dispensing the fluid; a faucet body configured to be engaged, the faucet body further having a faucet nut connected to a threaded portion of the faucet body;
a threaded valve rod extending through the faucet body, the threaded valve rod having a threaded end configured to mate with a faucet button;
a faucet button configured to control fluid flow through the faucet, the faucet button connected to the threaded end of the threaded valve rod.
Embodiment 19
The faucet body further includes an aperture formed in a first end of the faucet body, the aperture configured to receive a portion of the faucet button; 19. The faucet of embodiment 18, wherein the aperture formed in the portion has a substantially circular portion and a flat portion.
Embodiment 20
20. The faucet of embodiment 18, further comprising an insulated container having a plurality of sides forming a sidewall structure, the faucet extending through the sides of the sidewall structure.

Claims (12)

An insulated container,
It is a base,
a sidewall structure having a plurality of sides, a first side and a second side of the plurality of sides further including a hook point fixture receiver in the form of a slot;
a bottom portion connected to a first end of each side of the plurality of sides of the sidewall structure, the bottom portion configured to support the insulated container on a surface; and the sidewall structure. an opening formed in a second end of each side of the plurality of sides of the sidewall structure opposite the first end of each side of the plurality of sides of the sidewall structure; , the opening is configured to allow access to an internal cavity of the insulated container formed by the sidewall structure and the bottom portion, and a gasket is configured to close the opening when the lid is in the closed position. the gasket further having a stem, a first side, and a second side, the stem further having a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions forming a seal on the lid. configured to be inserted into a lower recess, the first side being connected to and substantially perpendicular to the stem, and the second side being at an angle of about 30 degrees to extending from the first side at a 60 degree angle, the first side and the second side forming a V-shaped extension, the V-shaped extension being remote from the stem. a base having an opening configured to extend toward the side;
a faucet extending through a first side of the sidewall structure, the faucet configured to dispense fluid stored within the interior cavity, and configured to dispense the fluid; a faucet body having a spout; and a threaded valve rod extending through the faucet body, the threaded valve rod having a threaded end configured to mate with a faucet button. , the faucet button is configured to control fluid flow from the internal cavity, and the button further includes a threaded valve rod connected to the threaded end of the threaded valve rod. faucet and
an insulated container mount configured to secure the insulated container, the insulated container mount secured to a platform, the insulated container mount configured to secure the insulated container to the insulated container mount; when the insulated container mount is configured to allow access to the internal cavity, and the insulated container mount further includes a plurality of anchor points and a mounting plate, the anchor points and the mounting plate being configured to allow access to the insulated container mount. and the anchorage point further includes a receiving portion configured to secure the insulated container mount to the platform by bolts, screws, pins, or welds, and the insulated container mount is configured to secure the insulated container mount to the lid. an insulated container mount further comprising a strap with a hook point fixture configured to be secured to the hook point fixture receiver while allowing the insulated container mount to rotate from a closed position to an open position; . The insulated container of claim 1, wherein the gasket is substantially square shaped or substantially rectangular shaped. The insulated container of claim 1, wherein the gasket further comprises at least one vent. The insulated container of claim 1, wherein the gasket is constructed of flexible PVC. The insulated container of claim 1, wherein the gasket is secured within a recess on the underside of the lid, the recess extending around the perimeter of the underside of the lid. The gasket is
a stem further comprising a plurality of protrusions, the protrusions being configured to be inserted into a recess on the underside of the lid;
a first side, the first side connected to the stem, the first side configured substantially perpendicular to the stem; ,
a second side configured to extend from the first side at an angle of approximately 30 degrees to 60 degrees; 2. The insulated container of claim 1, further comprising a second side, the second side forming a V-shaped extension. The stem is
a vent, the vent communicating with an internal void of the insulated container and providing a conduit for venting air from the internal void or admitting air to the internal void to equalize pressure; 7. The insulated container according to claim 6, further comprising: The insulated container of claim 1, wherein the anchorage points are configured to secure the insulated container mount to the platform by bolts, screws, pins, or other fastening means. 2. The insulated container mount further comprises a plurality of locking points, the locking points being configured to receive a locking device, the locking device securing the insulated container mount to the platform. Insulated container as described. 10. The insulated container of claim 9, wherein the locking device secures the insulated container to the insulated container mount. 2. The insulated container mount further comprises a base, the base having a top and a bottom, and the base configured to prevent movement of the insulated container on the platform. The insulated container described in. 12. The insulated container of claim 11, wherein the bottom of the base further comprises a non-slip material, a non-slip material, rubber or a composite material on the bottom.

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