US20160166070A1 - Cooler - Google Patents
Cooler Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20160166070A1 US20160166070A1 US14/903,963 US201414903963A US2016166070A1 US 20160166070 A1 US20160166070 A1 US 20160166070A1 US 201414903963 A US201414903963 A US 201414903963A US 2016166070 A1 US2016166070 A1 US 2016166070A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- cooler
- access
- area
- housing
- cavity
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C9/00—Stools for specified purposes
- A47C9/10—Camp, travelling, or sports stools
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C11/00—Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups A45C1/00-A45C9/00
- A45C11/20—Lunch or picnic boxes or the like
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C15/00—Purses, bags, luggage or other receptacles covered by groups A45C1/00 - A45C11/00, combined with other objects or articles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage
- A45C5/14—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage with built-in rolling means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C9/00—Purses, Luggage or bags convertible into objects for other use
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C13/00—Convertible chairs, stools or benches
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/62—Accessories for chairs
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/62—Accessories for chairs
- A47C7/622—Receptacles, e.g. cup holders, storage containers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/62—Accessories for chairs
- A47C7/622—Receptacles, e.g. cup holders, storage containers
- A47C7/624—Receptacles, e.g. cup holders, storage containers located on side of seat, e.g. on armrest
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C9/00—Purses, Luggage or bags convertible into objects for other use
- A45C2009/002—Purses, Luggage or bags convertible into objects for other use into a seat
Definitions
- the disclosure is generally directed to a cooler, and more specifically to a cooler with improved features.
- Coolers are designed to contain and insulate consumables have been enjoyed by tailgaters, beachgoers, campers and other recreation minded people for decades. Over the years, the cooler has become a staple for those who wish to partake in outdoor or group activities, and wish to transport food and beverage with their group.
- the cooler acts as a center of gravity for a group enjoying a recreational activity, as it is the one area that all members of the group must at least occasionally visit the cooler if they wish to obtain a beverage or snack.
- enhancements to conventional coolers that merely contain and insulate would be desirable.
- a cooler including a cooler housing, at least one cooler cavity defined by the cooler housing, a first area of access to the cooler cavity, the first area of access being at least partially defined by the cooler housing and selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition, a second area of access to the cooler cavity, the second area of access being at least partially defined by the cooler housing and selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition, wherein the second area of access is positioned to be configured into the open condition when the first area of access is in the open condition and the closed condition.
- a cooler including a cooler housing, at least one cooler cavity defined by the cooler housing, at least one cooler access point disposed to provide access to the cooler cavity, a seating arrangement that is at least one of slidably and rotatably associated with the cooler housing, wherein the at least one cooler cavity access point s accessible via at least one of a sliding and rotating of the seating arrangement.
- a cooler including a cooler housing, at least one cooler cavity defined by the cooler housing, at least one cooler access point disposed to provide access to the cooler cavity, and a table arrangement that is extendably associated with the cooler housing, wherein the at least one cooler cavity access point is accessible via an extending of the table arrangement.
- FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance an exemplary embodiment:
- FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the cooler as shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 2 a is a front perspective view of an interior of the cooler as shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another platy embodiment
- FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the cooler as shown in FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 7 a is a front perspective view of an interior of the cooler as shown in FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment.
- FIGS. 1-13 various embodiments of an improved cooler in accordance with applicant's disclosure will be discussed hereinbelow. Such improvements include a number of desirable seating arrangements, access options, and other features designed to enhance a user's experience.
- the cooler 10 includes a cooler body or housing 12 and at least one cooler cavity 14 defined by the housing.
- the cavity 14 includes a first area of access 16 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via a lid 18 , a second area of access 20 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via a lid 22 , and a third area of access 24 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via a lid 26 .
- the cooler 10 also includes a seating arrangement 28 with a seating portion 30 and optional seat back 32 that folds up from the seating portion 30 . The seat back 32 or perhaps the housing 12 itself (as shown in FIG.
- the seating portion 30 may act as the lid 18 (as shown in the Figures) or be disposed atop the lid and articulately or removably associated therewith (removability allowing the seat to be taken from the cooler and used in another environment)
- the second and third areas of access 20 , 24 are disposed along the sides of the seating arrangement 28 , in an area that allows accessibility to both a user(s) in the seat(s) and those in the surrounding area.
- These second and third areas 20 , 24 are separate and distinct openings from each other and the first area or opening 16 in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5 , and are positioned such that a user may access the cooler cavity 14 via the second or third areas 20 , 24 when the first area 16 is closed (i.e. when the lid 18 and/or seating arrangement 28 is occupied by a person or people or otherwise prevented from being opened).
- a user relaxing in the seating arrangement 28 does not have to stand up in order to lift the lid 18 and allow access to the cooler cavity (and beverages therein) to another user (or the actual user sitting in the seats).
- Providing access in this manner obviously enhances convenience to user(s) the seating arrangement 28 , as well as other users who might wish to retrieve and item from the cooler 10 .
- It also allows for a cooler design that actually encourages users to sit on cooler tops (see the elaborate seating arrangements of the Figures), which would be unexpected and a drawback for traditional coolers in light of the fact that a sitting user blocks access to the cooler contents for other users.
- the cooler 100 includes a cooler body or housing 102 and at least one cooler cavity 104 defined by the housing.
- the cavity 104 includes a first area of access 106 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via a lid 108 and a second area of access 120 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via a lid 122 .
- the cooler 100 also includes a seating arrangement 128 with a seating portion 130 and optional seat back 132 that folds up from the seating portion 130 .
- the seat back 132 or perhaps the housing 102 itself (as shown in FIG.
- the seating portion 130 may act as the lid 108 (as shown in the Figures) or be disposed atop the lid and articulately or removably associated therewith (removability allowing the seat to be taken from the cooler and used in another environment)
- the second area of access 120 is disposed at a relative rear of the seating arrangement 128 proximate a hinge association between the lid 122 and cooler housing 102 , in an area that allows accessibility to the cooler contents by at least the users in the surrounding area of each cooler 100 .
- These second area of access 120 is a separate and distinct opening from the first area or opening 106 in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 6-10 , and is positioned such that a user may access the cooler cavity 104 via the second area of access 120 when the first area 106 is closed (i.e. when the lid 122 and/or seating arrangement 128 is occupied by a person or people or otherwise prevented from being opened).
- a user relaxing in the seating arrangement 128 does not have to stand up in order to allow access to the cooler cavity (and beverages therein) to another user.
- providing access in this manner obviously enhances convenience to user(s) in the seating arrangement 128 , as well as other users who might wish to retrieve and item from the cooler 100 .
- It also allows for a cooler design that actually encourages users to sit on cooler tops (see the elaborate seating arrangements of the Figures), which would be unexpected and a drawback for traditional coolers in light of the fact that a sitting user blocks access to other users.
- the areas of access or openings 20 , 24 , 120 of FIGS. 1-10 are defined by the housing 12 to be disposed at an oblique angle to the areas of access or openings 16 , 116 . This is beneficial, though not necessary, to cooler cavity access.
- the cooler 200 includes a cooler body or housing 202 and at least one cooler cavity (within the housing) defined by the housing.
- the cavity includes a first area of access 206 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via a lid 208 .
- the cooler 200 also includes a seating arrangement 228 with two slidable seats 230 , 232 (though one seat is also contemplated).
- the two seats 230 , 232 may be maintained and perhaps licked together when the cooler is being transported or stowed, such that the lid 208 is covered and prevented from being opened by the seats 230 , 232 .
- the seats 230 , 232 are slid away from each other in a manner that exposes the area of access 206 or lid 208 , which may be opened and closed to selectively provide access to the cooler cavity.
- the seats 230 , 232 may themselves act as a lid, whereby separation of the seats 230 , 232 provides direct access to the cooler cavity via the area of access or opening 206 .
- the above described sliding of the seats 230 , 232 may be achieved by associating of the seats 230 , 232 with the cooler housing 202 via any known slidable system (such as but not limited to a guide rail or pair of guide rails).
- the seats 230 , 232 include a seating portion 234 and optional seat back 236 that folds up from the seating portion 234 .
- the seating portions 234 may include supports 238 (perhaps extendable or simply nestable with the cooler housing 202 ) designed to provide a base for each seat 230 , 232 .
- the seats 230 , 232 may be removably associated with the housing (removability allowing the seat to be taken from the cooler and used in another environment).
- the slidable seats 230 , 232 allow a user(s) to relax in one or both seats 230 , 232 and not have to stand up in order to allow access to the cooler cavity (and beverages therein) to another user (or the actual user(s) sitting in the seats). Provision of access in this manner is obviously of great convenience to user(s) in one or both seats 230 , 232 , as well as other users who might wish to retrieve and item from the cooler 200 . It also allows for a cooler design that actually encourages users to sit on coolers, which would be unexpected and a drawback for traditional coolers in light of the fact that a sitting user blocks access to other users.
- the cooler 300 includes a cooler body or housing 302 and at least one cooler cavity (within the housing) defined by the housing.
- the cavity includes a first area of access 306 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via a lid 308 .
- the cooler 300 also includes a rotatable seating arrangement 328 .
- the rotatable seating arrangement 328 may be maintained and perhaps locked in a closed position when the cooler is being transported or stowed, such that the lid 308 is covered and prevented from being opened by the rotatable seating arrangement 328 .
- the seating arrangement 328 includes a seating portion 334 and an optional seat back 336 .
- the seat back 336 (if present) may be folded down upon the lid 308 when in the closed position, with the seating portion 334 being folded down upon the seat back 336 (or lid if there is no seat back is present).
- the seating portion 334 may also include a support 338 that folds down upon the seating potion 334 when in the closed position.
- the seating arrangement 328 may be removably associated with the housing (removability allowing the seat to be taken from the cooler and used in another environment).
- the seating arrangement 328 When a user wishes to access the cooler cavity, the seating arrangement 328 may be folded away from the lid 308 as shown in FIG. 12 , such that the seating portion 334 is rotated 180 degrees from the lid 308 or area of access 306 , and the seat back 336 is 90 degrees from the lid 308 or area of access 306 . Rotation of the seating arrangement 328 in this manner exposes the area of access 306 or lid 308 , which may be opened and closed to selectively provide access to the cooler cavity.
- the seating arrangement 328 itself may act as a lid, whereby rotation of the seating arrangement 328 away from the area of access 306 provides direct access to the cooler cavity via the area of access or opening 306 .
- the above described rotation of the seating arrangement 328 may be achieved by associating of the seating arrangement 328 with the cooler housing 302 via any known rotatable system (such as but not limited to a hinge system).
- the seating arrangement 328 includes the support 338 , which is designed to provide a base for the seating arrangement 328 , and prevent tipping of the cooler 300 .
- the rotatable seating arrangement 328 allow a user(s) to relax in the seating arrangement 328 and not have to stand up in order to allow access to the cooler cavity (and beverages therein) to at least another user. Provision of access in this manner is obviously of great convenience to user(s) in the seating arrangement 328 , as well as other users who might wish to retrieve and item from the cooler 300 . It also allows for a cooler design that actually encourages users to sit on coolers, which would be unexpected and a drawback for traditional coolers in light of the fact that a sitting user blocks access to other users.
- the cooler system 400 includes a cooler 401 with a cooler body or housing 402 and at least one cooler cavity (within the housing) defined by the housing.
- the cavity includes a first area of access 406 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via a lid 408 .
- the cooler system 400 also includes a table arrangement 410 extendable from the cooler housing 402 and stowable chair 412 .
- the table arrangement 410 may be maintained and perhaps locked in a closed position when the cooler system 400 is being transported or stowed, such that the lid 208 is covered and prevented from being opened by the table arrangement 410 .
- the chair 412 may also be secured between the table arrangement 412 and lid 408 or cooler housing 402 when the system is in a closed position.
- the table arrangement 410 may be extended away from the area of access 406 or lid 408 , which may be opened and closed to selectively provide access to the cooler cavity.
- the table arrangement 410 itself may act as a lid, whereby extension thereof provides direct access to the cooler cavity via the area of access or opening 406 .
- the chair 412 will obviously be removed from blocking the area of access 406 when the table arrangement 410 is extended.
- the table arrangement 412 may be removably associated with the housing (removability allowing the seat to be taken from the cooler and used in another environment).
- the extended table arrangement 410 may be locked into an open position at a desirable extension point(s) from the housing 402 . This may be accomplished via any known extending system (such as but not limited to an extendable pole and slot or telescoping system).
- the system 400 as disclosed allows for an enhanced user experience by providing both a table station and seating configured to prevent interference with access to the cooler cavity.
- the system 400 allow a user(s) to use the cooler 401 as a table (via the table arrangement 410 ) and/or relax in the chair 412 , while not having to remove items from a top of the cooler and/or to stand up in order to allow access to the cooler cavity (and beverages therein) to at least another user.
- Provision of access in this manner is obviously of great convenience to user(s) in the chair 412 and using the table arrangement 410 , as well as other users who might wish to retrieve and item from the cooler 401 . It also allows for a cooler design that actually encourages users to sit on elements of a cooler system and use portion of the cooler as a table, which would be unexpected and a drawback for traditional coolers in light of the fact that a sitting user blocks access to other users.
- coolers 10 , 100 , 200 , 300 , and 401 may include additional features intended to enhance user experience.
- enhancement features such as but not limited to bottle openers, cutting boards, and drainage spouts are all contemplated by this disclosure. Any of these features (particularly the bottle opener) may be placed in any desirable area of the coolers, such as but limited to the seating arrangements, housings or portions of the housings proximate or defining the various areas of access.
Landscapes
- Devices That Are Associated With Refrigeration Equipment (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This application is a 371 of International Application No. PCT/US2014/046132, filed Jul. 10, 2014, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/844,719, filed Jul. 10, 2013, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- The disclosure is generally directed to a cooler, and more specifically to a cooler with improved features.
- Coolers are designed to contain and insulate consumables have been enjoyed by tailgaters, beachgoers, campers and other recreation minded people for decades. Over the years, the cooler has become a staple for those who wish to partake in outdoor or group activities, and wish to transport food and beverage with their group.
- Indeed, it could be said that the cooler acts as a center of gravity for a group enjoying a recreational activity, as it is the one area that all members of the group must at least occasionally visit the cooler if they wish to obtain a beverage or snack. In light of this importance, enhancements to conventional coolers that merely contain and insulate would be desirable.
- Disclosed is a cooler including a cooler housing, at least one cooler cavity defined by the cooler housing, a first area of access to the cooler cavity, the first area of access being at least partially defined by the cooler housing and selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition, a second area of access to the cooler cavity, the second area of access being at least partially defined by the cooler housing and selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition, wherein the second area of access is positioned to be configured into the open condition when the first area of access is in the open condition and the closed condition.
- Also disclosed is a cooler including a cooler housing, at least one cooler cavity defined by the cooler housing, at least one cooler access point disposed to provide access to the cooler cavity, a seating arrangement that is at least one of slidably and rotatably associated with the cooler housing, wherein the at least one cooler cavity access point s accessible via at least one of a sliding and rotating of the seating arrangement.
- Additionally disclosed is a cooler including a cooler housing, at least one cooler cavity defined by the cooler housing, at least one cooler access point disposed to provide access to the cooler cavity, and a table arrangement that is extendably associated with the cooler housing, wherein the at least one cooler cavity access point is accessible via an extending of the table arrangement.
-
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance an exemplary embodiment: -
FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the cooler as shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 2a is a front perspective view of an interior of the cooler as shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another platy embodiment; -
FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the cooler as shown inFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 7a is a front perspective view of an interior of the cooler as shown inFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment; and -
FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of a cooler in accordance with another exemplary embodiment. - With reference to
FIGS. 1-13 , various embodiments of an improved cooler in accordance with applicant's disclosure will be discussed hereinbelow. Such improvements include a number of desirable seating arrangements, access options, and other features designed to enhance a user's experience. - Referring first to
FIGS. 1-5 , an exemplary embodiment of acooler 10 with varying seating options but similar access options is shown. Thecooler 10 includes a cooler body orhousing 12 and at least onecooler cavity 14 defined by the housing. Thecavity 14 includes a first area ofaccess 16 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via alid 18, a second area ofaccess 20 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via alid 22, and a third area ofaccess 24 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via alid 26. Thecooler 10 also includes aseating arrangement 28 with aseating portion 30 andoptional seat back 32 that folds up from theseating portion 30. The seat back 32 or perhaps thehousing 12 itself (as shown inFIG. 2 ) may include anextendable support 34 extending therefrom and designed to prevent thecooler 10 from tipping backwards when a user or user sits in theseating arrangement 28. Theseating portion 30 may act as the lid 18 (as shown in the Figures) or be disposed atop the lid and articulately or removably associated therewith (removability allowing the seat to be taken from the cooler and used in another environment) - In each of the
exemplary coolers 10 shown inFIGS. 1-5 , the second and third areas ofaccess seating arrangement 28, in an area that allows accessibility to both a user(s) in the seat(s) and those in the surrounding area. These second andthird areas FIGS. 1-5 , and are positioned such that a user may access thecooler cavity 14 via the second orthird areas first area 16 is closed (i.e. when thelid 18 and/orseating arrangement 28 is occupied by a person or people or otherwise prevented from being opened). Via the second andthird areas seating arrangement 28 does not have to stand up in order to lift thelid 18 and allow access to the cooler cavity (and beverages therein) to another user (or the actual user sitting in the seats). Providing access in this manner obviously enhances convenience to user(s) theseating arrangement 28, as well as other users who might wish to retrieve and item from the cooler 10. It also allows for a cooler design that actually encourages users to sit on cooler tops (see the elaborate seating arrangements of the Figures), which would be unexpected and a drawback for traditional coolers in light of the fact that a sitting user blocks access to the cooler contents for other users. - As shown in
FIG. 5 , with potential access issues resolved by the second andthird access areas table portion 36 andgarbage bin 38 that extend off of the seating arrangement or cooler housing may also be contemplated and incorporated into construction of the cooler 10. - Referring next to
FIGS. 6-10 , another exemplary embodiment of acooler 100 with varying seating options but similar access options is shown. Thecooler 100 includes a cooler body orhousing 102 and at least onecooler cavity 104 defined by the housing. Thecavity 104 includes a first area ofaccess 106 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via alid 108 and a second area ofaccess 120 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via alid 122. Thecooler 100 also includes aseating arrangement 128 with aseating portion 130 andoptional seat back 132 that folds up from theseating portion 130. The seat back 132 or perhaps thehousing 102 itself (as shown inFIG. 7 ) may include anextendable support 134 extending therefrom and designed to prevent thecooler 100 from tipping backwards when a user or user sits in theseating arrangement 128. Theseating portion 130 may act as the lid 108 (as shown in the Figures) or be disposed atop the lid and articulately or removably associated therewith (removability allowing the seat to be taken from the cooler and used in another environment) - In each of the
exemplary coolers 100 shown inFIGS. 6-10 , the second area ofaccess 120 is disposed at a relative rear of theseating arrangement 128 proximate a hinge association between thelid 122 andcooler housing 102, in an area that allows accessibility to the cooler contents by at least the users in the surrounding area of eachcooler 100. These second area ofaccess 120 is a separate and distinct opening from the first area or opening 106 in the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 6-10 , and is positioned such that a user may access thecooler cavity 104 via the second area ofaccess 120 when thefirst area 106 is closed (i.e. when thelid 122 and/orseating arrangement 128 is occupied by a person or people or otherwise prevented from being opened). Via the second area ofaccess 120, a user relaxing in theseating arrangement 128 does not have to stand up in order to allow access to the cooler cavity (and beverages therein) to another user. Hereagain, providing access in this manner obviously enhances convenience to user(s) in theseating arrangement 128, as well as other users who might wish to retrieve and item from the cooler 100. It also allows for a cooler design that actually encourages users to sit on cooler tops (see the elaborate seating arrangements of the Figures), which would be unexpected and a drawback for traditional coolers in light of the fact that a sitting user blocks access to other users. - As shown in
FIG. 10 , with potential access issues resolved by thesecond access area 120, further enhancements, such as atable portion 136 and garbage bin that extend off of the seating arrangement or cooler housing may also be contemplated and incorporated into construction of thecooler 100. - Notably, the areas of access or
openings FIGS. 1-10 are defined by thehousing 12 to be disposed at an oblique angle to the areas of access oropenings 16, 116. This is beneficial, though not necessary, to cooler cavity access. - Referring now to
FIG. 11 , another exemplary embodiment of acooler 200 with a seating option and a unique access option is shown. Thecooler 200 includes a cooler body orhousing 202 and at least one cooler cavity (within the housing) defined by the housing. The cavity includes a first area of access 206 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via alid 208. The cooler 200 also includes aseating arrangement 228 with twoslidable seats 230, 232 (though one seat is also contemplated). - The two
seats lid 208 is covered and prevented from being opened by theseats seats lid 208, which may be opened and closed to selectively provide access to the cooler cavity. Alternatively, theseats seats - The above described sliding of the
seats seats cooler housing 202 via any known slidable system (such as but not limited to a guide rail or pair of guide rails). In addition, and similar to the above discussed embodiments ofFIGS. 1-10 , theseats seating portion 234 and optional seat back 236 that folds up from theseating portion 234. Theseating portions 234 may include supports 238 (perhaps extendable or simply nestable with the cooler housing 202) designed to provide a base for eachseat seats - Similarly once again to the above discussed embodiments, the
slidable seats seats seats - Referring next to
FIG. 12 , yet another exemplary embodiment of a cooler 300 with a seating option and a unique access option is shown. The cooler 300 includes a cooler body orhousing 302 and at least one cooler cavity (within the housing) defined by the housing. The cavity includes a first area ofaccess 306 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via alid 308. The cooler 300 also includes arotatable seating arrangement 328. - The
rotatable seating arrangement 328 may be maintained and perhaps locked in a closed position when the cooler is being transported or stowed, such that thelid 308 is covered and prevented from being opened by therotatable seating arrangement 328. As shown inFIG. 12 , theseating arrangement 328 includes aseating portion 334 and an optional seat back 336. The seat back 336 (if present) may be folded down upon thelid 308 when in the closed position, with theseating portion 334 being folded down upon the seat back 336 (or lid if there is no seat back is present). Theseating portion 334 may also include asupport 338 that folds down upon theseating potion 334 when in the closed position. In addition theseating arrangement 328 may be removably associated with the housing (removability allowing the seat to be taken from the cooler and used in another environment). - When a user wishes to access the cooler cavity, the
seating arrangement 328 may be folded away from thelid 308 as shown inFIG. 12 , such that theseating portion 334 is rotated 180 degrees from thelid 308 or area ofaccess 306, and the seat back 336 is 90 degrees from thelid 308 or area ofaccess 306. Rotation of theseating arrangement 328 in this manner exposes the area ofaccess 306 orlid 308, which may be opened and closed to selectively provide access to the cooler cavity. Alternatively, theseating arrangement 328 itself may act as a lid, whereby rotation of theseating arrangement 328 away from the area ofaccess 306 provides direct access to the cooler cavity via the area of access oropening 306. - The above described rotation of the
seating arrangement 328 may be achieved by associating of theseating arrangement 328 with thecooler housing 302 via any known rotatable system (such as but not limited to a hinge system). In addition, and similar to the above discussed embodiments ofFIGS. 1-11 , theseating arrangement 328 includes thesupport 338, which is designed to provide a base for theseating arrangement 328, and prevent tipping of the cooler 300. - Similarly once again to the above discussed embodiments, the
rotatable seating arrangement 328 allow a user(s) to relax in theseating arrangement 328 and not have to stand up in order to allow access to the cooler cavity (and beverages therein) to at least another user. Provision of access in this manner is obviously of great convenience to user(s) in theseating arrangement 328, as well as other users who might wish to retrieve and item from the cooler 300. It also allows for a cooler design that actually encourages users to sit on coolers, which would be unexpected and a drawback for traditional coolers in light of the fact that a sitting user blocks access to other users. - Referring now to
FIG. 13 , an exemplary embodiment of acooler system 400 with enhanced user features is shown. Thecooler system 400 includes a cooler 401 with a cooler body orhousing 402 and at least one cooler cavity (within the housing) defined by the housing. The cavity includes a first area of access 406 that is selectively configurable between an open condition and closed condition via alid 408. Thecooler system 400 also includes atable arrangement 410 extendable from thecooler housing 402 andstowable chair 412. - The
table arrangement 410 may be maintained and perhaps locked in a closed position when thecooler system 400 is being transported or stowed, such that thelid 208 is covered and prevented from being opened by thetable arrangement 410. Optionally, thechair 412 may also be secured between thetable arrangement 412 andlid 408 orcooler housing 402 when the system is in a closed position. When a user wishes to access the cooler cavity, thetable arrangement 410 may be extended away from the area of access 406 orlid 408, which may be opened and closed to selectively provide access to the cooler cavity. Alternatively, thetable arrangement 410 itself may act as a lid, whereby extension thereof provides direct access to the cooler cavity via the area of access or opening 406. If theoptional chair 412 is included in thesystem 400, the chair will obviously be removed from blocking the area of access 406 when thetable arrangement 410 is extended. In addition thetable arrangement 412 may be removably associated with the housing (removability allowing the seat to be taken from the cooler and used in another environment). - The
extended table arrangement 410 may be locked into an open position at a desirable extension point(s) from thehousing 402. This may be accomplished via any known extending system (such as but not limited to an extendable pole and slot or telescoping system). Thesystem 400 as disclosed allows for an enhanced user experience by providing both a table station and seating configured to prevent interference with access to the cooler cavity. Similarly once again to the above discussed embodiments, thesystem 400 allow a user(s) to use the cooler 401 as a table (via the table arrangement 410) and/or relax in thechair 412, while not having to remove items from a top of the cooler and/or to stand up in order to allow access to the cooler cavity (and beverages therein) to at least another user. Provision of access in this manner is obviously of great convenience to user(s) in thechair 412 and using thetable arrangement 410, as well as other users who might wish to retrieve and item from the cooler 401. It also allows for a cooler design that actually encourages users to sit on elements of a cooler system and use portion of the cooler as a table, which would be unexpected and a drawback for traditional coolers in light of the fact that a sitting user blocks access to other users. - It should be appreciated that all of the above discussed
coolers - All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.
- The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) is to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising”, “having”, “including”, and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to”,) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
- Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
Claims (28)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/903,963 US20160166070A1 (en) | 2013-07-10 | 2014-07-10 | Cooler |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201361844719P | 2013-07-10 | 2013-07-10 | |
US14/903,963 US20160166070A1 (en) | 2013-07-10 | 2014-07-10 | Cooler |
PCT/US2014/046132 WO2015006550A1 (en) | 2013-07-10 | 2014-07-10 | Cooler |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20160166070A1 true US20160166070A1 (en) | 2016-06-16 |
Family
ID=52280598
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/903,963 Abandoned US20160166070A1 (en) | 2013-07-10 | 2014-07-10 | Cooler |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20160166070A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2015006550A1 (en) |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20160242552A1 (en) * | 2015-02-23 | 2016-08-25 | Plano Molding Company | Seating device with storage |
US20170080311A1 (en) * | 2016-12-07 | 2017-03-23 | Brent L. Cain | Assembly for Baseball Field Dugout Seating and for Baseball Equipment Storage |
US10271647B2 (en) * | 2016-05-17 | 2019-04-30 | Hiever Co., Ltd. | Work chair with adjustable tray |
US10272934B2 (en) * | 2016-07-18 | 2019-04-30 | Ice Rover, Inc. | Multi-terrain multi-purpose insulated container |
USD873085S1 (en) | 2016-07-18 | 2020-01-21 | Ice Rover, Inc. | Container |
USD873086S1 (en) | 2016-07-18 | 2020-01-21 | Ice Rover, Inc. | Container wagon |
US20200062454A1 (en) * | 2018-08-21 | 2020-02-27 | Igloo Products Corp. | Container with one or more tray retention portions and support stand |
USD881673S1 (en) | 2017-06-16 | 2020-04-21 | Ice Rover, Inc. | Handle |
US11118830B2 (en) * | 2019-02-09 | 2021-09-14 | Brian Keith McKinnon | Cooler system |
Citations (15)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2812227A (en) * | 1955-08-29 | 1957-11-05 | Hill Amelia | Combined hassock and bar |
USD298186S (en) * | 1986-06-16 | 1988-10-25 | Brannon Jessie J | Combined seat and cooler unit |
US5100198A (en) * | 1990-10-09 | 1992-03-31 | Baltzell Ricky L | Seat cooler apparatus |
US5727844A (en) * | 1997-02-20 | 1998-03-17 | O'quinn; Jeffrey Lee | Cooler and seat system |
US6076298A (en) * | 1998-03-26 | 2000-06-20 | Teel; Prinsez | Fishing supply caddy |
US6341817B1 (en) * | 1999-10-19 | 2002-01-29 | Edgar Stern-Gonzalez | Conventional cooler with reclinable seat back and seat |
US20050067864A1 (en) * | 2003-09-26 | 2005-03-31 | John Anglin | Cooler seat |
US6993931B1 (en) * | 2004-05-24 | 2006-02-07 | Hamilton Cindy T | Multifunctional cooler assembly |
US7309106B2 (en) * | 2005-05-23 | 2007-12-18 | Stallman James J | Cooler with seat and anti-tip support |
US20110226003A1 (en) * | 2010-03-16 | 2011-09-22 | Dustin Chaney | Portable Cooler Having an Extendable Drawer System |
USD646528S1 (en) * | 2008-09-02 | 2011-10-11 | Stallman James J | Cooler with seat and anti-tip support |
US8356712B2 (en) * | 2011-06-16 | 2013-01-22 | Piazza Jr Joseph A | Portable container with integrated table surface |
US9259090B1 (en) * | 2013-10-11 | 2016-02-16 | Jennifer Dawn Cronin | Insulated cooler with dual dispensing chutes |
US9307840B2 (en) * | 2014-07-01 | 2016-04-12 | Carlos Arturo Restrepo | Foldable and portable lounge chair having an integrated lockable storage compartment |
USD790284S1 (en) * | 2016-08-03 | 2017-06-27 | Gene Collins | Combination ice cooler and fishing caddy |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1895864A (en) * | 1931-08-12 | 1933-01-31 | Ricci Alvaro | Automobile trunk |
US5803472A (en) * | 1997-05-30 | 1998-09-08 | Lien; Chang Mei | Multiusage ice box |
FR2782620A1 (en) * | 1998-09-01 | 2000-03-03 | Edmond Wernett | Armchair with fixed armrests that can be transformed into table with storage space; has cabinet in lower part and fold-down panel serving as headboard |
US7559602B2 (en) * | 2004-11-24 | 2009-07-14 | Jerry Ward | Cooler having an integrated seat |
US7810350B2 (en) * | 2007-03-22 | 2010-10-12 | Shelton Andrew C | Beverage dispensing cooler |
US20090217699A1 (en) * | 2007-12-10 | 2009-09-03 | Cynthia Ball | Deal on wheels |
-
2014
- 2014-07-10 WO PCT/US2014/046132 patent/WO2015006550A1/en active Application Filing
- 2014-07-10 US US14/903,963 patent/US20160166070A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2812227A (en) * | 1955-08-29 | 1957-11-05 | Hill Amelia | Combined hassock and bar |
USD298186S (en) * | 1986-06-16 | 1988-10-25 | Brannon Jessie J | Combined seat and cooler unit |
US5100198A (en) * | 1990-10-09 | 1992-03-31 | Baltzell Ricky L | Seat cooler apparatus |
US5727844A (en) * | 1997-02-20 | 1998-03-17 | O'quinn; Jeffrey Lee | Cooler and seat system |
US6076298A (en) * | 1998-03-26 | 2000-06-20 | Teel; Prinsez | Fishing supply caddy |
US6341817B1 (en) * | 1999-10-19 | 2002-01-29 | Edgar Stern-Gonzalez | Conventional cooler with reclinable seat back and seat |
US7163262B2 (en) * | 2003-09-26 | 2007-01-16 | Cool Seat Llc | Cooler seat |
US20050067864A1 (en) * | 2003-09-26 | 2005-03-31 | John Anglin | Cooler seat |
US6993931B1 (en) * | 2004-05-24 | 2006-02-07 | Hamilton Cindy T | Multifunctional cooler assembly |
US7309106B2 (en) * | 2005-05-23 | 2007-12-18 | Stallman James J | Cooler with seat and anti-tip support |
USD646528S1 (en) * | 2008-09-02 | 2011-10-11 | Stallman James J | Cooler with seat and anti-tip support |
US20110226003A1 (en) * | 2010-03-16 | 2011-09-22 | Dustin Chaney | Portable Cooler Having an Extendable Drawer System |
US8356712B2 (en) * | 2011-06-16 | 2013-01-22 | Piazza Jr Joseph A | Portable container with integrated table surface |
US9259090B1 (en) * | 2013-10-11 | 2016-02-16 | Jennifer Dawn Cronin | Insulated cooler with dual dispensing chutes |
US9307840B2 (en) * | 2014-07-01 | 2016-04-12 | Carlos Arturo Restrepo | Foldable and portable lounge chair having an integrated lockable storage compartment |
USD790284S1 (en) * | 2016-08-03 | 2017-06-27 | Gene Collins | Combination ice cooler and fishing caddy |
Cited By (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20160242552A1 (en) * | 2015-02-23 | 2016-08-25 | Plano Molding Company | Seating device with storage |
US10271647B2 (en) * | 2016-05-17 | 2019-04-30 | Hiever Co., Ltd. | Work chair with adjustable tray |
USD999596S1 (en) | 2016-07-18 | 2023-09-26 | Ice Rover, Inc. | Container |
US10272934B2 (en) * | 2016-07-18 | 2019-04-30 | Ice Rover, Inc. | Multi-terrain multi-purpose insulated container |
USD873085S1 (en) | 2016-07-18 | 2020-01-21 | Ice Rover, Inc. | Container |
USD873086S1 (en) | 2016-07-18 | 2020-01-21 | Ice Rover, Inc. | Container wagon |
US20170080311A1 (en) * | 2016-12-07 | 2017-03-23 | Brent L. Cain | Assembly for Baseball Field Dugout Seating and for Baseball Equipment Storage |
USD881673S1 (en) | 2017-06-16 | 2020-04-21 | Ice Rover, Inc. | Handle |
USD893979S1 (en) | 2017-06-16 | 2020-08-25 | Ice Rover, Inc. | Handle |
US20200062454A1 (en) * | 2018-08-21 | 2020-02-27 | Igloo Products Corp. | Container with one or more tray retention portions and support stand |
US11623793B2 (en) * | 2018-08-21 | 2023-04-11 | Igloo Products Corp. | Container with one or more tray retention portions and support stand |
US11027885B2 (en) * | 2018-08-21 | 2021-06-08 | Igloo Products Corp. | Container with one or more tray retention portions and support stand |
US11118830B2 (en) * | 2019-02-09 | 2021-09-14 | Brian Keith McKinnon | Cooler system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2015006550A1 (en) | 2015-01-15 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20160166070A1 (en) | Cooler | |
US7128369B2 (en) | Portable combination cooler and cushioned seat | |
USD646528S1 (en) | Cooler with seat and anti-tip support | |
US7604290B1 (en) | Cooler bench seat | |
US9389010B1 (en) | Super ice chest | |
US20090217699A1 (en) | Deal on wheels | |
ES2912504T3 (en) | Multifunctional center console system for a vehicle | |
US9168876B2 (en) | Electronic device support for vehicles | |
US7334802B2 (en) | Combination portable cooler and retractable tray | |
US7309106B2 (en) | Cooler with seat and anti-tip support | |
US20130249256A1 (en) | Chair | |
US9211012B1 (en) | Seating attachment device for a tailgate | |
US9192235B2 (en) | iChair | |
US20170245486A1 (en) | Fishing system | |
KR101917193B1 (en) | The camping car with activated storage space | |
US8262159B2 (en) | Toolbox seat for pickup truck bed | |
JP6184415B2 (en) | center console | |
US9064434B2 (en) | Holder apparatus for beverage containers and other objects for use with an airplane cabin window frame assembly and installation method for same | |
WO2005014330A3 (en) | Tailgate seat apparatus | |
US20060230530A1 (en) | Bed | |
US8857882B2 (en) | Toolbox seat for pickup truck bed | |
US20180334280A1 (en) | Bottle | |
US20080257228A1 (en) | Steering wheel tray for using portable computer in vehicle | |
US20040112259A1 (en) | Adjustable sporting event table | |
US20100050909A1 (en) | Bar set |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GOLIC, LLC, CONNECTICUT Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:GOLIC, JACOB KENNETH;GOLIC, MICHAEL LOUIS;SZYMANSKI, AARON;AND OTHERS;SIGNING DATES FROM 20130807 TO 20131021;REEL/FRAME:037814/0619 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GOLIC, MICHAEL LOUIS, CONNECTICUT Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GOLIC, LLC;REEL/FRAME:037935/0385 Effective date: 20160305 |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |