WO2018075157A1

WO2018075157A1 - Insulating container with sensor technology

Info

Publication number: WO2018075157A1
Application number: PCT/US2017/050617
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christopher M. Keller; Scott Barbieri; James W. SONNTAG; Kyle T. Miller
Original assignee: Yeti Coolers, Llc
Priority date: 2016-09-09
Filing date: 2017-09-08
Publication date: 2018-04-26

Abstract

An insulating container (100, 200) that has an integrated computer device (206) that is connected to one or more sensor (326A, 326B, 326) types. The sensors (326A, 326B) are configured to gather information about the operation of the insulating container (100, 200). The insulating container (100, 200) also has one or more controlled devices (328) that are electronically controllable through the computer device (206) using a local or a network connection between the computer device (206) and a user of the insulating container (100, 200).

Description

INSULATING CONTAINER WITH SENSOR TECHNOLOGY

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[01] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/385,640, filed September 9, 2016. This application is also related to U.S. Application No. 15/469,219, filed on March 24, 2017. The disclosures of all of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties for any and all non-limiting purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[02] Aspects of this disclosure generally relate to an insulating container, such as a cooler, that utilizes sensor technology.

BACKGROUND

[03] Insulating containers are commonly used to reduce a rate of heat transfer to or from stored consumable items (e.g. food and beverages). For example, an insulating container such as a cooler may be commonly used to keep consumable items cool in an otherwise warm local environment (e.g. indoor or outdoor environment). However, conventional insulating containers such as coolers lack sensor technology that allows for information related to the operation of the cooler to be collected.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[04] In light of the foregoing background, the following presents a simplified summary of the present disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the various implementations of this disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the embodiments described herein. It is not intended to identify key or critical elements, or to delineate the scope of the embodiments described in this disclosure. The following summary merely presents some concepts of the embodiments of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description provided below.

[05] In one aspect, this disclosure relates to an insulating container that has an integrated computer device that is connected to one or more sensor types configured to gather information about the operation of the insulating container. The insulating container also has one or more controlled devices that are electronically controllable through the computer device using a local or a network connection between the computer device and a user of the insulating container.

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[07] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and is not limited in the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements.

[08] FIG. 1 depicts an isometric view of one example of an insulating container that may be utilized with sensor technology systems and methods, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[09] FIG. 2 schematically depicts an isometric view of an insulating container in an open configuration, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[10] FIG. 3 schematically depicts a computer device that may be utilized in an insulating container, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[11] FIG. 4 is a flowchart diagram that may be executed using proximity sensor data, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[12] FIG. 5 is a flowchart diagram that may be executed using location sensor data, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[13] FIG. 6 is a flowchart diagram that may be utilized to determine a location of an insulating container, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[14] FIG. 7 is a flowchart diagram that may be utilized to execute an alarm system for an insulating container, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[15] FIG. 8 is a flowchart diagram of a process that utilizes received weather monitoring data, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[16] FIG. 9 is a flowchart diagram that may be executed using received temperature data, according to one or more aspects described herein. [17] FIG. 10 is a flowchart diagram that may be utilized to determine a mass of items contained within an insulating container, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[18] FIG. 11 is a flowchart diagram that may be executed by a computer device in order to receive the captured image data, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[19] FIG. 12 is a flowchart diagram that may be utilized to identify information related to items stored within an insulating container, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[20] Further, it is to be understood that the drawings may represent the scale of different components of various examples; however, the disclosed examples are not limited to that particular scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

[22] Aspects of this disclosure relate to an insulating container. FIG. 1 depicts an isometric view of one example of an insulating container 100 that may be utilized with the sensor technology systems and methods described herein. In one implementation, the insulating container 100 may have a substantially cuboidal shape, and may comprise a base structure 102 coupled to a lid structure 104. The base structure 102 may comprise a cavity into which food and/or beverages may be stored in order to reduce a rate of heat transfer thereto/therefrom through the walls (e.g. sidewalls 106 and 108 and/or top wall 110, among others) of the insulating container 100. In one implementation, the lid structure 104 may be removably-coupled to the base structure 102 such that the lid structure 104 may be partially or wholly separated from the base structure 104 in order to gain access to the storage cavity within the base structure 102. In another implementation, the lid structure 104 may be hingedly-coupled to the base structure 102. For example, the lid structure 104 may be hinged along a back edge 112 of the insulating container 100 and such that the lid structure 104 may, in one example, rotate relative to the base structure 102 about axis 114. It is contemplated that any hinge mechanism may be utilized to facilitate a hinged coupling between the base structure 102 and the lid structure 104. For example, the insulating container 100 may utilize one or more mechanical hinge elements, or may utilize a flexure (e.g. a polymer flexure) along at least a portion of the back edge 112 of the insulating container 100. The insulating container 100 may also comprise one or more fastener elements configured to hold the lid structure 104 in a closed configuration, as depicted FIG. 1. For example, and as depicted in FIG. 1, one or more fasteners 116 and 118 may be utilized. In one example, the fasteners can be configured as latches, such as the latching mechanism described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,910,819, which is fully incorporated herein by reference for any and all non-limiting purposes. The fasteners 116 and 180 may comprise tab structures 120 and 122, respectively, hingedly-coupled to the lid structure 104, and configured to be received into receiving structures 124 and 126, respectively.

[23] In another implementation, the insulating container 100 may utilize one or more fasteners along one or more of the back edge 112, front edge 130, and/or side edges 132 and 134. The fasteners (e.g. fasteners 116 and/or 118) may comprise cam locking mechanisms, clips, ties, hooks, straps, T-latches, an interference fitting, one or more magnets, or any other mechanism configured for removable coupling of the lid structure 104 to the base structure 102. These fastener types can be configured to be quick release fasteners in order to allow the user to easily open and close the lid structure 104 on the insulating container 100. Moreover, in one example, the container could simply include a flange gasket without any additional securing methods. In one example, a single fastener, or three or more fasteners may be used along the front edge 130 to removably couple the lid structure 104 to the base structure 102. In yet another example, a zip fastener may be utilized along at least a portion of one or more of the back edge 112, front edge 130, and/or side edges 132 and 134.

[24] In one example, the insulating container 100 may be configured to reduce a rate of heat transfer between a storage cavity and an external environment by insulating the storage cavity using the base wall and sidewalls (e.g. sidewalls 106 and 108) of the base structure 102 and the top wall provided by the lid structure 104. Accordingly, the base structure 102 and/or the lid structure 104 may be constructed from one or more insulating polymeric materials. It is contemplated that any polymer with suitable structural properties may be utilized with the insulating container 100, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. In another implementation, one or more elements of the insulating container 100 may be constructed from one or more metals, alloys, ceramics, fiber-reinforced materials, or organic materials, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. Further, the insulating container 100 may comprise one or more cavities (not depicted in FIG. 1), which may be utilized to increase the thermal resistance of the insulating container 100. In certain examples, the one or more cavities may be partially or wholly filled with air. In other examples, the one or more cavities may be partially or wholly evacuated such that a vacuum cavity is maintained within the one or more cavities. In yet another example, the one or more cavities may be partially or wholly filled with one or more insulating materials, such as foams. Additionally, the insulating container 100 may utilize reflective coatings on one or more internal surfaces in order to reduce a rate of heat transfer by infrared radiation.

[25] It is contemplated that the insulating container 100 may be embodied with any storage capacity and physical dimensions, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Further, alternative geometries of insulating containers may be utilized with the sensor systems and methods for insulating containers described herein. For example, while the insulating container 100 is depicted as having a substantially cuboidal and rigid structure, an insulating container utilized with the sensor systems and methods described herein may be embodied as a substantially cylindrical insulating container, and/or may comprise one or more deformable/collapsible structures (e.g. sidewalls), without departing from the scope of these disclosures. In yet another example, the insulating container may have a storage cavity within a lid structure, similar to lid structure 104, such that all or part of the storage capacity of an insulating container is provided by a lid structure that is partially or wholly separable from a base structure, similar to base structure 102.

[26] FIG. 2 schematically depicts an isometric view of an insulating container 200 in an open configuration, according to one or more aspects described herein. In one example, the insulating container 200 may be similar to the insulating container 100, and comprise a base structure 202 similar to the base structure 102, and a lid structure 204 similar to the lid structure 104. In one example, the insulating container 200 may comprise one or more sensors and/or electronically-controllable devices/actuators. One or more electronic input/output interfaces for communicating with sensors and/or other electronic elements of the insulating container 200 may be integrated into a computer device 206, as schematically depicted in FIG. 2. In one implementation, the computer device 206 may be integrated into the lid structure 204, as depicted in FIG. 2. However, it is also contemplated that the computer device 206 may be integrated into the base structure 202 or integrated into another structural element of the insulating container 200 (e.g. a handle (not depicted)), without departing from the scope of these disclosures. Further, the computer device 206 may be embodied as a single, consolidated module comprising one or more general-purpose or application-specific integrated circuits. However, in another implementation, the computer device 206 may be embodied as multiple linked modules that may be positioned in different sections of the insulating container 200, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. The computer device 206 is described in further detail in relation to FIG. 3.

[27] FIG. 3 schematically depicts a computer device 206 that may be utilized in an insulating container, such as a cooler, according to one or more aspects described herein. In one implementation, the computer device 206 may have a processor 302 for controlling overall operation of device 206 and its associated components, including RAM 304, ROM 306, a wide area network (WAN) interface 308, a local area network (LAN) interface 310, a cellular network interface 312, an input/output (I/O) module 314, and memory 316. In one example, memory 316 may comprise any known form of persistent and/or volatile memory, such as, among others, a hard disk drive, a solid state disk drive, optical disk technologies (CD-ROM, DVD, Blu-ray, and the like), tape-based stored devices, ROM, RAM, or combinations thereof. In this way, memory 316 may comprise a non-transitory computer- readable medium that may communicate instructions to processor 302 to be executed. Software and/or firmware may be stored within memory 316 and/or storage to provide instructions to the processor 302 for allowing the computing device 206 to perform various functions. For example, memory 316 may store software used by the computer device 206, such as an operating system 318, application programs 320, and an associated database 322. The processor 302 and its associated components may allow the computer device 206 to run a series of computer-readable instructions to process and format data. It is contemplated that the processor 302 may comprise one or more processing cores, which may facilitate parallel or serial processing. Further, it is contemplated that the processor 302 may be embodied with any processing speed, without departing from the scope of these disclosures.

[28] The computer device 206 may include a power supply 324 that may be utilized to provide electrical energy to internally- or externally-connected components associated with the computer device 206. In one example, the power supply 324 may include a store of electrical energy such that the computer device 206, and associated connected components, may operate independently of a mains power supply. For example, the power supply 324 may be configured to provide electrical energy when the insulating container 200 is used in an environment without convenient access to an external power supply (e.g. when cooler 200 is utilized in an outdoor environment). It is contemplated that the power supply 324 may comprise a store of chemical energy in one or more batteries. As such, any battery technology and energy storage capacity may be utilized with the power supply 324, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. In other implementations, the power supply 324 may comprise one or more of: a solar cell, a fuel-cell (fueled by hydrogen from an alkane e.g. butane), or a generator (e.g. a device configured with a handle or other interface configured to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy).

[29] The computer device 206 may comprise an input/output (I/O) module 314 comprising hardware and/or firmware and software configured to facilitate communication to/from one or more sensors and/or additional controllable devices. For example, the input/output module 314 may facilitate data transmission to/from sensors 326a and/or 326b or data transmission to/from controlled device 328. The computer device 206, as schematically depicted in FIG. 3, may comprise one or more sensors 326a that are integrated into the computer device 206. In one example, the one or more sensors 326a may be present on a same integrated circuit, or within a same housing unit as the computer device 206. Additionally or alternatively, the computer device 206 may send and/or receive data from one or more externally-connected sensors 326b. As such, the one or more sensors 326b may be implemented as separate physical sensor hardware units coupled to the insulating container 200 and in communication with the computer device 206. In particular, the one or more internal sensors 326a and the one or more external sensors 326b may communicate with the computer device 206 through the input/output module 314. As such, the input/output module 314 may comprise all physical hardware (e.g. physical port hardware, among others), firmware, as well as software to facilitate communication between sensors 326a and/or 326b. Further details related to the sensors 326a and/or 326b as well as controlled device 328 are provided with reference to the proceeding figures of this disclosure.

[30] It is contemplated that the input/output module 314 may utilize any communication protocol, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. Further, the input/output module 314 may be configured to send and/or receive analog or digital data in a serial or parallel format. As such, the input/output module 314 may, in one example, comprise an interface conforming to any of the universal serial bus (USB) standards. In other implementations, the input/output module 340 may utilize other communication protocols, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. Additionally or alternatively, the input/output module 314 may comprise hardware and supporting firmware and/or software configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between sensors 326a and/or 326b, and/or controlled device 328. In this way, the schematically-depicted communication channels 330, 332, 334 may represent physical data channels (e.g. a data bus, a wire, or a connection on an integrated circuit, among others), or a wireless data channel (e.g. Bluetooth, or another wireless protocol). Additionally, the input/output module 314 may facilitate communication between the computer device 206 and one or more of a microphone, keypad, touch screen, and/or stylus through which a user of the computer device 206 may provide input, and may also include one or more of a speaker for providing audio output and a video display device for providing textual, audiovisual and/or graphical output.

[31] The computer device 206 may be configured to send and/or receive instructions and/or other types of digital information from a remote computer device 340. It is contemplated that the remote computer device 340 may represent a computer device accessible to a user of the insulating container 200. In one specific example, the remote computer device 340 may be a smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, laptop, or a desktop computer accessible to a user of a cooler (insulating container 200). In this way, the user of the cooler may communicate with the computer device 206 that is integrated into the cooler through a network connection across a wide area network (WAN) 350 (e.g. the Internet), a local area network (LAN) 352, or a cellular network 354, among others. Accordingly, the WAN interface 308 of the computer device 206 may comprise hardware, as well as supporting firmware and software for communication across a wide area network such as, in one example, the Internet. Is contemplated that the WAN interface 308 may utilize any communication protocol, for example TCP/IP, Ethernet, FTP, HTTP, among others. Further, communication via the WAN interface 308 may be wired or wireless, and may utilize, among others, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared communication, satellite communication or an Ethernet cable, or combinations thereof. Similarly, the LAN interface 310 may comprise hardware, and supporting firmware and software for communication across a local area network between the remote computer device 340 and the computer device 206. The LAN interface 310 may also facilitate wired or wireless communication. The cellular network interface 312 may be utilized to communicate information to or from the computer device 206 using a cellular/mobile telephone network. As such, it is contemplated that the cellular network interface 312 may be utilized with any cellular network communication protocol using any suitable frequency bands (e.g. including GSM, CDMA, among others). It is further contemplated that the cellular network interface 312 may be utilized to send/receive information communicated by radio waves of any frequency and/or modulation type (e.g AM, FM, radio frequencies associated with portable two-way radio transceivers, among others).

[32] In addition to facilitating communication between the remote computer device 340 and the computer device 206, one or more of the WAN interface 308, the LAN interface 310, and the cellular network interface 312 may be utilized to facilitate communication of information between the computer device 206 and the sensor 326b and/or controlled device 328. As such, sensor 326b and/or controlled device 328 may communicate information through channel 360 through one or more of the WAN 350, LAN 352 and/or cellular network 354, and without using a direct connection to the input/output module 314 through data channels 332 and/or 334. It is contemplated that the input/output module 314 may, in one example, still facilitate communication between the computer device 206 and the sensor 326b and/or controlled device 328 when using one or more of the WAN 350, LAN 352, or cellular network 354. In this example, the input/output module 314 may relay communications through one or more of the interfaces 308, 310, or 312.

[33] It is contemplated that the schematically-depicted communication channel 360 may represent multiple different types of communication channels (both wired and wireless) facilitating communication to/from the remote computer device 340, the sensor 326b and/or the controlled device 328. As such, it will be appreciated that the schematically-depicted communication channel 360 is schematically-depicted as a single channel for clarity in FIG. 3, and may represent a plurality of channels utilizing different hardware, firmware and/or software for communication.

[34] It is further contemplated that the computer device 206 may comprise the schematically-depicted elements built onto a single integrated circuit or may comprise multiple, separate integrated circuits in communication with one another. For example, the schematically-depicted power supply 324 may be implemented as a separate module within, for example, the insulating container 200 of FIG. 2.

Proximity Sensor

[35] In one implementation, the insulating container 200 may comprise a proximity sensor. This proximity sensor may otherwise be referred to as a motion sensor. As such, sensor 326a and/or 326b, as previously described in FIG. 3, may comprise a proximity sensor. It is contemplated that any proximity sensor technology may be utilized with the systems and methods described herein without departing from the scope of these disclosures. However, in one example, a proximity sensor may utilize a beam of electromagnetic radiation (in one implementation, a beam infrared radiation). The presence and/or motion of an individual/object may be detected when said individual/object intersects the beam of electromagnetic radiation. In this way, the proximity sensor may output data indicating the presence or absence of a person, animal (e.g. a pet or wild animal when the insulating container 200 is utilized in an outdoor environment), or another object within a detectable range of the insulating container 200. It is contemplated that the proximity sensor may utilize any detectable range, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. In certain examples, the proximity sensor may detect presence or motion of persons, animals or objects within a 1 m, 2 m, 5 m, 10 m, 50 m, 20 m, 25 m, or 50 m range of the insulating container 200, among others. In another example, the proximity sensor may be embodied as an image- capturing sensor (e.g. a CCD or CMOS digital image sensor). Accordingly, in this implementation, the digital image sensor may continuously, periodically or randomly capture one or more images (e.g. still or video imagery) of one or more areas surrounding the insulating container 200. Further, one or more recognition processes may be executed to analyze the one or more images to determine if there is a person, animal, or object present or moving within a detectable range of the insulating container 200. Accordingly, it is contemplated that any image recognition processes may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. It is further contemplated that a proximity sensor may be located at any position on the insulating container 200, including the base structure 202 and/or the lid structure 204. Further, multiple proximity sensors may be positioned on a single insulating container 200 such that a detection area may extend up to 360° around the insulating container 200.

[36] FIG. 4 is a flowchart diagram 400 that may be executed using proximity sensor data, according to one or more aspects described herein. Accordingly, in one implementation, flowchart 400 may be utilized to determine whether an insulating container has been intentionally or accidentally left open, and to potentially respond by alerting a user that the insulating container should be closed in order to reduce a rate of heat transmission to/from a storage cavity within the insulating container 200, and/or actuating one or more physical actuators to close the insulating container. Accordingly, sensor data received by the computer device 206 may indicate that the insulating container 200 is open. In one example, the sensor data may be received from an accelerometer (e.g. a first tri-axis accelerometer coupled to the lid structure 204) indicating that, in one example, the lid structure 204 has been moved relative to/removed from the base structure 202. In one example, a second accelerometer within the base structure 202 may indicate that the base structure 202 is not being moved and this data may be compared to the data from the first accelerometer within the lid structure 204 which may indicate that the lid structure 204 has been moved. However, it is contemplated that a single accelerometer may be utilized within, for example, the lid structure 204, without a second accelerometer in the base structure 202. In one example, the accelerometer may be referred to as an access sensor.

[37] In another example, data from a contact sensor (e.g. a capacitive or a resistive sensor) or physical switch sensor may be utilized to determine that the insulating container 200 has been opened. These contact and physical switch sensors may be referred to as access sensors. It is further contemplated that any sensor type that may be utilized to determine that the insulating container 200 has been opened, and may be utilized with the one or more processes described in relation of flowchart 400. In response, the computer device 206 may start a timing sequence that counts up to a threshold time. It is contemplated that any threshold time may be utilized (e.g. 30 seconds, one minute, two minutes, three minutes, four minutes, or five minutes, among many others), without departing from the scope of these disclosures. These one or more processes may be executed at block 402 of process 400.

[38] Upon reaching the threshold time, the computer device 206 may execute one or more processes to communicate a request for data from a proximity sensor coupled to the insulating container 200, and sensitive to the presence of individuals, animals, or objects external to, and within a detectable range of the insulating container. These one or more processes may be executed at block 404 of flowchart 400. In response to receipt of proximity sensor data, one or more processes may be executed to determine whether motion has been detected. In one example, one or more processes may be executed on raw sensor data received from a proximity sensor. In another example, the proximity sensor may communicate sensor data that may include an indication as to whether a person, animal or object has been detected. As such, the raw sensor data may be at least partially processed by the proximity sensor before being communicated to the computer device 206. Accordingly, decision block 406 may determine if motion is detected within a predetermined range of the insulating container 200. As previously described, it is contemplated that any detection range may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures.

[39] If no motion is detected within a predetermined range of the insulating container 200, flowchart 400 may proceed to block 412, and one or more processes may be executed to communicate instructions to a physical actuator on the insulating container 200. It is contemplated that the physical actuator may comprise one or more actuators configured to move the lid structure 204 relative to the base structure 202. Accordingly, the physical actuator may be configured to partially or wholly open or close the insulating container 200. As such, the physical actuator may be configured to rotate the lid structure 204 relative to the base structure 202 in order to close the insulating container 200. In certain implementations, the physical actuator may comprise a linear actuator, or a motor configured with one or more gears/gearboxes. However, it is noted that insulating container 200 depicted in FIG. 2 is merely one exemplary implementation of an insulating container, and other closure mechanisms may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. For example, a lid structure of an insulating container may comprise multiple elements rather than the unitary lid structure 204 depicted in FIG. 2. In other examples, an insulating container may be configured to close by sliding one element relative to another, or may comprise a zip fastener configured to facilitate closure. It is contemplated that the physical actuator described herein may be utilized with any of these embodiments, among others. As such, the physical actuator may be implemented as the controlled device 328, as described in relation to FIG. 3.

[40] The computer device 206 may, at block 412, execute one or more processes to communicate instructions to a physical actuator 328 in response to determining that the insulating container 200 has been left open and unattended. These instructions may cause the physical actuator 328 to close the insulating container 200 in order to reduce a rate of heat transfer to or from a storage cavity within the insulating container 200. In additional or alternative implementations, upon proceeding to block 412, one or more processes may communicate a message to a user (e.g. a user or owner of the insulating container 200) indicating that the insulating container 200 has been automatically closed. This message may be communicated through one or more of the network interfaces (e.g. the WAN interface 308, LAN interface 310, or the cellular network interface 312). As such, the user may receive an email notification, a push notification, a text message, a voicemail message, or an automated phone call, among others, indicating that the insulating container 200 has been closed automatically by the computer device 206.

[41] Alternatively, if motion is detected within a predetermined range of the insulating container 200, flowchart 400 may proceed to block 408. In this way, the processes executed by the computer device 206 may attempt to avoid closing the insulating container 200 if a user has intentionally left the insulating container 200 open. As such, the computer device 206 may execute one or more processes to communicate a warning message to the user. The warning message may be communicated directly to a user from the insulating container by outputting, in certain examples, an audible message from one or more speakers built into the insulating container 200, e.g. an alarm sound, a musical sequence, or a speaking voice announcement, among others. Additionally or alternatively, the warning message may be directly communicated to a user as a visual message, e.g. a text message displayed on a display output built into the insulating container 200, or an indicator light built into the insulating container 200. In yet another example, the warning message may be communicated directly to a user by haptic feedback, e.g. a vibratory motor built into the insulating container 200 may cause all or part of the insulating container 200 to vibrate in order to communicate the warning message to the user. Additionally or alternatively, a warning message may be communicated to a user through one or more of the network interfaces of the computer device 206 (e.g. the WAN interface 308, LAN interface 310, or the cellular network interface 312). As such, a user may receive an email notification, a push notification, a text message, a voicemail message, or an automated phone call, among others, at block 408 of flowchart 400. The warning message communicated to the user at block 408 may indicate that the insulating container 200 has been open for a duration longer than a threshold period of time, and advise that it may be prudent to close the insulating container 200.

[42] In response to receipt of the warning message, a user may be offered an option to respond or acknowledge the warning message. Accordingly, one or more processes may be executed by the computer system 206 at the decision block 410 to determine if the user has acknowledged the warning message communicated at block 408. In this way, the computer system 206 may wait for a return message to be received at one or more of the network interfaces (e.g. the WAN interface 308, LAN interface 310, or the cellular network interface 312), or at the input output module 314. If a message acknowledgment is not received within a timeout period, the flowchart 400 may proceed to block 412. If, however, an acknowledgment message is received by the computer device 206 from the user, flowchart 400 may proceed to block 414. The response/acknowledgment message from the user may be communicated as a response email, text message, an input to an insulating container management application executed locally on a smartphone, tablet, or computer associated with the user, or executed as a web application accessible to the user. Additionally, the user may acknowledge the warning message by inputting a response using a physical input interface associated with the insulating container 200 (e.g. a keypad, touch screen, or a single button accessible on or within the insulating container 200). In another example, a user may acknowledge the message by manually closing the insulating container 200, which will cause the flowchart to proceed to block 414. In yet another example, a user may acknowledge the warning message by communicating a gesture to an image-capturing sensor associated with the insulating container 200. As such, in one example, in response to receipt of the warning message at block 408, a user may acknowledge the warning message by waving to an image- capturing sensor, and the computer device 206 may receive data from the image-capturing sensor and execute one or more image recognition processes to determine that the images received represent an acknowledgment by the user. Further image recognition processes may determine that the individual waving/performing another gesture acknowledgment is an authorized user of the insulating container. In this way, one or more facial recognition processes may be executed by the computer device 206 and utilized to determine that an individual is an authorized user of the insulating container 200.

[43] The response/acknowledgment message may, in one example, confirm that the insulating container 200 has been intentionally left open and no action should be taken by the computer system 206 to close the insulating container 200. In response, the computer device 206 may restart a waiting period. When the waiting period has elapsed, the computer device 206 may query one or more sensors to determine whether the insulating container 200 remains open, and flowchart 400 may proceed back to block 402. In other implementations, a message acknowledgment from the user may cause the flowchart to proceed from decision block 410 to block 416. As such, a user may respond by agreeing that the insulating container 200 should be closed by the computer system 206.

Location-determining sensor

[44] In one example, sensor 326a and/or sensor 326b may comprise a location-determining sensor, otherwise referred to as a location sensor. In one implementation, the location sensor may comprise hardware, and supporting firmware and software, configured to receive and process a radio signal received from a space-based satellite navigation system. As such, it is contemplated that the global positioning system (GPS), the global navigation satellite system (GLONASS), the Galileo global navigation satellite system, and/or the BeiDou navigation satellite system may be utilized with the location sensor described herein. It is contemplated that any global positioning system protocol may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. The location sensor may be configured to calculate, from data received from a satellite navigation system, a geographic location of, in one example, the computer device 206, and hence, the insulating container 200.

[45] In another example, a location sensor (e.g. sensor 326 and/or sensor 326b) may determine a geographic location by triangulating signals received from multiple sources within a cellular network (e.g. cellular network 354). In another example, a location sensor may determine a location of the computer device 206, and hence, the insulating container 200, based upon an IP address associated with a local area network or Wi-Fi network.

[46] FIG. 5 is a flowchart diagram 500 that may be executed using location sensor data, according to one or more aspects described herein. Accordingly, in one implementation, flowchart 500 may be utilized to determine if an insulating container is within an authorized geographic area. The computer device 206 may receive data from a location sensor as previously described. In one example, the location sensor data may be received in response to a request communicated from the computer device 206 to the sensor 326a and/or 326b. In another example, the computer device 206 may receive location sensor data continuously, periodically or randomly, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. Upon receipt of the location sensor data, the computer device 206 may execute one or more processes to determine a geographic location associated with the location sensor 326a and/or 326b. In this way, the computer device 206 may determine a geographic location of the insulating container 200. It is contemplated that data received from the location sensor may be raw sensor data, or may comprise partially or wholly processed sensor data such that the data received from the location sensor includes a geographic location of the sensor itself that does not require further processing. Accordingly, in one example, sensor data may be received from the location sensor at block 502 of flowchart 500.

[47] An authorized geographic area may be defined for the insulating container 200. As such, the authorized geographic area may correspond to a user-defined (e.g. defined by the owner of the insulating container 200, among others) area within which the insulating container 200 is allowed to be utilized. Accordingly, in one example, a user may define an unauthorized geographic area corresponding to a user's home, a campground at which the insulating container 200 is being utilized by the user, or a portion of a parking lot at a sports venue at which a user is utilizing the insulating container 200, among many others. In certain examples, if it is detected that the insulating container 200 has traveled outside of an authorized geographic area, the user may be informed in case the relocation of the insulating container 200 represents a theft, among others. It is contemplated that an authorized geographic area may be defined by a user using an application (e.g. smartphone or tablet app, or web-based application, among others) or through a physical interface (e.g. a button) on the insulating container 200. The authorized geographic area can be selected on a computer- generated map or by selecting an area determined by a selected radius from the location of the insulating container or computing device of the user. In another example, the computer device 206 may analyze location data received from the location sensor, and prompt the user to set an authorized location for the insulating container 200 upon detecting that the insulating container 200 has stopped moving for a threshold period of time. In one example, this scenario may correspond to the computer device 206 detecting that the insulating container 200 has been transported in a vehicle to a first location (e.g. camping ground, sports venue, and the like), and the computer device 206 determining that the insulating container 200 has reached the user's intended destination when it is detected that the insulating container 200 has not moved for a threshold amount of time. It is contemplated that any threshold amount of time may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. In the case where the insulating container is undergoing transport, the location sensor can determine whether it is in a predetermined range from the user's computing device before alarming the user of a possible theft.

[48] Additionally or alternatively, a user of the insulating container 200 may be prompted to define and authorize a geographic area upon opening the insulating container 200, among others (e.g. upon opening the insulating container 200 for first time since it was filled at a home location associated with the user). Accordingly, the prompt for the user to set an authorized location for the insulating container 200 may comprise an audible, visual, or haptic prompts directly from one or more output devices built into the insulating container (e.g. speaker, display, or vibratory motor). In another example, the prompt may be communicated to the user via a push notification to an installed smartphone /tablet app, an email, a text message, or a voicemail message, among others. Upon setting an authorized location for the insulating container 200, an authorized geographic area may be defined using a predetermined radius from the authorized geographic location.

[49] In one implementation, the computer device 206 may request and store a home address associated with a user, and define an authorized geographic area for the insulating container 200 within a predetermined radius of the user's home address. In another example, a user may be prompted to authorize a geographic area associated with a geographic location frequented by the user, as detected from location data received by the computer device 206. It is contemplated that additional or alternative ways to define an authorized geographic area for the insulating container 200 may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. As such, the computer device 206, in response to receiving location sensor data, may execute one or more processes to check if the insulating container is within an authorized geographic area. These one or more processes may be executed at decision block 504. If the insulating container 200 is within an authorized geographic area, the flowchart may proceed to block 506, and a status message may be communicated from the computer device 206 to the user. The status message may include various metrics associated with the insulating container 200, including, among others, a geographic location of the insulating container 200, one or more internal and/or external temperatures associated with the insulating container 200, details of the contents of the insulating container 200, a time since the insulating container 200 was stocked with consumable goods, an indication as to whether the activity (human or animal motion) is detected within a predetermined vicinity of the insulating container, or combinations thereof. In another implementation, upon determining that the insulating container is within an authorized geographic area, flowchart 500 may proceed back to block 502 such that the computer device 206 may execute a loop awaiting data from the location sensor.

[50] If, in response to decision block 504, it is determined that the insulating container 200 is outside of an authorized geographic area, an alarm message may be communicated to the user. This alarm message may comprise an audible, visual, or haptic alarm outputted directly from the insulating container 200 using one or more onboard speakers, displays, or vibratory motors. In another example, the alarm message may be communicated via one or more of the network interfaces associated with the computer device (e.g. WAN interface 308, LAN interface 310, cellular network interface 312, and/or input/output module 314). In this way, the alarm message may comprise an email notification, a push notification, a text message, a voicemail message, or an automated phone call. In response to the alarm message, the user may be offered the option to relay an alert to local authorities (e.g. communicate a location of the insulating container 200 to a local police force along with a message indicating that it is suspected that the insulating container 200 has been stolen). In one example, these one or more processes executed by the computer device 206 to communicate an alarm message to the user may be executed at block 508 of flowchart 500. [51] Additionally or alternatively, in response to determining that the insulating container is outside of an authorized geographic area, an alarm may be activated on the insulating container 200. In one example, the alarm may comprise an audible siren, visual flashing lights or vibration (using a vibratory motor) of the insulating container 200. The alarm may be activated at block 510 of flowchart 500. Further additionally or alternatively, in response to determining that the insulating container is outside of an authorized geographic area, a message may be communicated directly to authorities (e.g. local police, a store from which the insulating container 200 has been hired etc.). As such, a message communicated to authorities may be generated automatically, and include a detected geographic location of the insulating container 200, as well as a note indicating that the insulating container 200 may have been involved in a theft. In one example, one or more processes may be executed to communicate a message to authorities at block 512.

[52] In alternative examples, the insulating device can include an RFID chip that can be used to locate the insulating device by way of an application on the user's computing device, e.g. smartphone, smartwatch, or tablet. In another example, the location sensor can be passive, and can be formed of a reflector device. For example, the reflective device may comprise a pair of foil aerials joined by a diode or a RECCO-type device.

[53] FIG. 6 is a flowchart diagram 600 that may be utilized to determine a location of an insulating container, according to one or more aspects described herein. In one example, a user may request, via one or more of the WAN 350, LAN 352 or cellular network 354, to be provided with a geographic location of an insulating container 200. The user may communicate this request using, in one example, a smartphone/tablet app, a web application, an email, a text message, or an automated phone number, among others. The request may be received by the computer device 206. In one implementation, one or more processes associated with receiving of the request for a geographic location of the insulating container 200 may be executed by the computer device 206 at block 602 of flowchart 600. In one example, in response to a request for a geographic location of the insulating container 200, the computer device 206 may query/communicate with a location sensor (e.g. sensor 326a and/or 326b). In response, the location sensor may communicate raw or processed data back to the computer device 206 that may include (i.e. may be previously processed and include), or may be utilized to determine (i.e. may be raw data that may be further processed), a geographic location of the insulating container 200. In one example, the computer device 206 may receive a location of the insulating container from the location sensor, and send the location information to the requester (i.e. the user) at block 602 of flowchart 600.

[54] Additionally or alternatively, in response to a request made at block 602, the computer device 206 may activate a beacon on the insulating container 200. In one example, the beacon may comprise an audible beacon that is emitted from one or more speakers integrated into the insulating container 200. In another example, the beacon may comprise a light that is illuminated upon activation of the beacon. Accordingly, the beacon may be utilized in combination with location sensor data, or in a scenario when satellite positioning data/other location sensor data is not available (e.g. during certain weather conditions, or when the insulating container 200 is positioned within a building, among others). As such, the computer device 206 may activate the beacon at block 604 of flowchart 600.

[55] In another implementation, and in response to a request for the location of an insulating container 200, the computer device 206 may instruct an image-capturing sensor integrated into the insulating container 200 to capture one or more images of the surroundings of the insulating container 200. The computer device 206 may, in turn, communicate these one or more images to the requesting user. As such, the user may be able to utilize the returned images to identify one or more distinguishable elements within the surroundings of the insulating container 200, and hence, identify a geographic location of the insulating container 200. One or more processes to capture and communicate the images of the surroundings of the insulating container 200 may be executed at block 606 of flowchart 600.

Accelerometer

[56] In one implementation, the sensor 326a and/or 326b may comprise an accelerometer. It is contemplated that any accelerometer may be utilized with the disclosures described herein. In one example, the accelerometer sensor may comprise a uni-axis, bi-axis, or tri-axis accelerometer. It is contemplated that the accelerometer sensor may comprise a micro- electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) integrated circuit. It is also contemplated that additional or alternative sensors described throughout these disclosures may be embodied as MEMS integrated circuits. Further, the accelerometer sensor may be integrated into a sensor chip that comprises a tri-axis accelerometer in combination with a tri-axis gyroscope (which may be referred to as a six degrees of freedom integrated circuit/module). In another implementation, it is contemplated that the accelerometer sensor may be integrated into a sensor chip that comprises a tri-axis accelerometer in combination with a tri-axis gyroscope, and a tri-axis magnetometer (which may be referred to as a 9 degrees of freedom integrated circuit/module).

[57] An accelerometer sensor may be utilized to determine if an insulating container 200 is being moved. Accordingly, in one example, an alarm system may be executed by the computer device 206, and triggered by movement of the insulating container 200. In this way, an alarm integrated into the insulating container 200 can be armed when the insulating container 200 is to be, in one example, left unattended. The alarm may then be triggered if the insulating container 200 is moved without disarming the alarm. For example, a wild animal attempting to gain access to food stored within the insulating container 200 may trigger the alarm to scare away the wild animal. FIG. 7 is a flowchart diagram 700 that may be utilized to execute an alarm system for an insulating container 200, according to one or more aspects described herein.

[58] The computer device 206 may receive sensor data from an accelerometer sensor (e.g. sensor 326a and/or 326b). Accordingly, the computer device 206 may receive sensor data from the accelerometer sensor in response to a request communicated from the computer device 206, or automatically from the accelerometer periodically, or in response to an output from the accelerometer sensor being triggered when the insulating container 200 is moved. One or more processes to receive data from the accelerometer sensor may be executed by the computer device 206 at block 702 of flowchart 700. In one implementation, data received from the accelerometer sensor may include raw sensor data, or data partially or wholly processed by the accelerometer sensor before being communicated to the computer device 206. Upon receipt, by the computer device 206, of the accelerometer sensor data, one or more processes may be executed to determine if the insulating container 200 has been moved.

[59] One or more processes may be executed to determine if the received accelerometer sensor data corresponds to the insulating container 200 being moved. Is contemplated that any filtering or additional/alternative data processing may be utilized to determine if the received accelerometer data corresponds to motion of the insulating container 200. In one example, noise may be filtered out of the received accelerometer data. Subsequently, one or more processes may be utilized to determine if the accelerometer sensor data corresponds to motion above a threshold level. It is contemplated that any threshold amounts may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. Processes associated with determining if the received sensor data corresponds to motion of the insulating container 200 may be executed at decision block 704 of flowchart 700. Accordingly, if the received accelerometer data does not correspond to motion of the insulating container 200 (e.g. the received accelerometer data is not above a threshold amount, among others) flowchart 700 may proceed to block 706, and the computer device 206 may communicate a status of the insulating container to the user. The status message may include various metrics associated with the insulating container 200, including, among others, a geographic location of the insulating container 200, one or more internal and/or external temperatures associated with the insulating container 200, details of the contents of the insulating container 200, a time since the insulating container 200 was stocked with consumable goods, an indication as to whether the activity (human or animal motion) is detected within a predetermined vicinity of the insulating container, or combinations thereof. Further, the computer device 206 may communicate the status message to the user through one or more of the data interfaces WAN interface 308, LAN interface 310, cellular network interface 312, and/or input/output module 314.

[60] In an alternative implementation, upon determining that the insulating container 200 is not being moved, flowchart 700 may proceed from decision block 704 back to block 702. In this way, computer device 206 may execute a loop that executes until sensor data is received/is continuously or periodically receiving accelerometer sensor data and evaluating said sensor data to determine if it represents motion of the insulating container 200.

[61] Upon determining that received accelerometer sensor data represents a motion of the insulating container 200, one or more processes may be executed to determine if the movement of the insulating container 200 is authorized. Accordingly, the computer device 206 may, at decision block 704, execute one or more processes to determine whether an alarm mode has been armed for the insulating container 200. In one example, the alarm mode may be armed by the user via a smartphone/tablet app, a web application, an email, a text message, or an automated phone number, among others. If, in one implementation, an alarm mode is not armed for the insulating container 200, movement of the insulating container 200 may be generally authorized, and flowchart 700 may proceed from decision block 704 to block 702. If, however, the alarm mode has been armed, flowchart 700 may activate one or more alarms upon detecting motion of the insulating container 200.

[62] In another example, one or more recognition processes may be executed by the computer device 206 on received accelerometer sensor data. Accordingly, if the received accelerometer sensor data corresponds to a one or more predetermined patterns of motion of the insulating container 200, the computer device 206 may execute one or more alarm processes (e.g. one or more of blocks 708, 710 and/or 712) without an alarm mode having previously been explicitly armed by the user. As such, the insulating container 200 may generally be movable without an alarm being activated, unless the computer device 206 detects one or more predetermined patterns of motion within the received accelerometer sensor data. In one example, a predetermined pattern of motion may correspond to an animal trying to gain access to the storage cavity in the insulating container 200. I.e., in one example there may be one or more distinct patterns of motion within received accelerometer data corresponding to an animal (e.g. wild animal or otherwise) trying to chew through/ claw open/ peck through the insulating container 200.

[63] Upon determining that an alarm should be raised in response to receipt of motion data from the accelerometer sensor, the computer device 206 may optionally execute one or more processes associated with blocks 708, 710 and/or 712. In one example, an alarm message may be communicated to a user of the insulating container 200. This alarm message may comprise an audible, visual, or haptic alarm outputted directly from the insulating container 200 using one or more onboard speakers, displays, or vibratory motors. In another example, the alarm message may be communicated via one or more of the network interfaces associated with the computer device 206 (e.g. WAN interface 308, LAN interface 310, cellular network interface 312, and/or input/output module 314). In this way, the alarm message may comprise an email notification, a push notification, a text message, a voicemail message, or an automated phone call. In response to the alarm message, the user may be offered the option to relay an alert to local authorities (e.g. communicate a location of the insulating container 200, as determined by a location sensor, to local police or a store that rented the insulating container to a user, along with a message indicating that it is suspected that the insulating container 200 has been stolen). In one example, these one or more processes executed by the computer device 206 to communicate an alarm message to the user may be executed at block 708 of flowchart 700.

[64] Additionally or alternatively, in response to determining that the motion not authorized, an alarm may be activated on the insulating container 200. In one example, the alarm may comprise an audible siren and/or visual flashing lights on the insulating container 200. As such, the alarm may be activated at block 710 of flowchart 700. Further additionally or alternatively, in response to determining that the insulating container is outside of an authorized geographic area, a message may be communicated directly to authorities (e.g. local police or an owner of the insulating container who loaned/rented it to a current user). As such, a message communicated to authorities may be generated automatically, and include a detected geographic location of the insulating container 200, as well as a note indicating that the insulating container 200 may have been involved in a theft. However, it is contemplated that any message type may be communicated, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. In one example, one or more processes may be executed to communicate a message to authorities at block 712.

Weather sensor

[65] It is contemplated that the insulating container 200 may be utilized in an outdoor environment. As such, it may be advantageous for the computer device 206 to receive and/or process atmospheric condition/weather data such that the user of the insulating container 200 may receive weather forecasts pertaining to the geographic location within which the user is utilizing the insulating container 200. In one example, the computer device 206 may receive atmospheric condition data from one or more devices that may be referred to as a weather sensor. This weather sensor may include a thermometer configured to output a data signal indicative of an external air temperature in the surroundings of the insulating container 200. In other examples, the weather sensor may comprise an anemometer, a wind vane, a hygrometer, a barometer, a rain gauge sensor, an ambient light sensor, and/or a lightning sensor. Further, the weather sensor may be implemented as one or more of the sensor 326a or 326b, as described in relation to FIG. 3. In another example, the computer device 206 may receive weather information from an external source through one or more network interfaces (e.g. WAN interface 308, the LAN interface 310, and/or cellular network interface 312). In one specific example, the computer device 206 may receive weather forecast information applicable to a geographic location of the insulating container 200, as received through the Internet, and based upon a geographic location detected by a location sensor 326a and/or 326b.

[66] FIG. 8 is a flowchart diagram 800 of a process that utilizes received weather data, according to one or more aspects described herein. As such, in one implementation, weather data received by the computer device 206 from either a remote source (e.g. through one or more of the network interfaces 308, 310 and/or 312) or a local source (e.g. by processing the data received from a weather sensor 326a and/or 326b) may comprise or correspond to a weather warning. In one implementation, weather warning data may include an indication of a type of weather expected. It is contemplated that any warning may be utilized with the disclosures described herein. In certain specific examples, weather warning data may include an indication of a rainstorm, hailstorm, snowstorm, a lightning/thunderstorm, a hurricane, or a tornado, among others. In one example, a received weather warning message may additionally include a geographic location/area to which the warning is applicable. Accordingly, the computer device 206 may execute one or more processes to determine an applicability of a received weather warning message to a current geographic location of the insulating container 200. In one example, the computer device 206 may calculate a distance between the current geographic location of the insulating container 200 and a geographic location associated with the received weather warning message. One or more processes executed by the computer device 206 to receive and process the weather warning data may be executed at block 802 of flowchart 800.

[67] If a received weather warning message is not within a predetermined range/applicable geographic area associated with the insulating container 200, the flowchart may proceed to block 810. Accordingly, the computer device 206 may store received weather warning messages, which may be searched and reviewed by the computer device 206 if the geographic location of the insulating container 200 changes. The computer device 206 may store the received weather warning data at block 810. It is contemplated that the computer device 206 may utilize any storage systems and methodology, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. If, however, the received weather warning data is applicable to the geographic area of the insulating container 200, the flowchart may proceed to block 806 and/or 808. As such, the computer device 206 may communicate an alarm message to a user of the insulating container 200 at block 806. The alarm message may detail the type of adverse weather conditions expected, or being experienced at the geographic location associated with the insulating container 200, as well as advice to be followed by the user (e.g. advice to seek shelter indoors during a lightning storm, and the like). In one implementation, the alarm message may be communicated to the user via one or more of the network interfaces 350, 352 and/or 354. Additionally or alternatively, the computer device 206 may execute one or more processes to activate an alarm associated with the insulating container 200. In one example, the alarm may be an audible, visual, or haptic alarm locally-outputted from the insulating container 200 by one or more speakers, visual displays, or vibratory motors. These one or more processes to activate an alarm in response to a received weather warning message may be executed at block 808 of flowchart 800. Temperature Sensor

[68] The insulating container 200 may be equipped with one or more thermometers configured to output data indicative of one or more internal and/or external temperatures. In one implementation, multiple thermometers may be utilized within a storage cavity of the insulating container 200 to provide temperature readings at multiple positions within the insulating container 200. Is contemplated that any temperature sensor technology may be utilized such that the temperature sensor may be configured as sensor 326a and/or 326b, as described in relation to FIG. 3. For example, the temperature sensor may comprise a thermocouple, an infrared thermometer, a thermistor, or a resistance temperature detector (RTD), among others.

[69] FIG. 9 is a flowchart diagram 900 that may be executed using received temperature data, according to one or more aspects described herein. In one example, flowchart 900 may be utilized to determine if an internal temperature of an insulating container 200 is above a threshold. Accordingly, the computer device 206 of the insulating container 200 may be configured to receive continuous temperature data, periodic temperature data, or temperature data in response to a request from the computer device 206 to one or more internal temperature sensors 326a and/or 326b integrated into the insulating container 200. In one example, the computer device 206 may be configured to receive temperature data each time the insulating container 200 is opened/closed. The received temperature data may comprise raw data, or may be partially or wholly processed by one or more processing circuits associated with the temperature sensors 326a and/or 326b. Further, the computer device 206 may, in one example, calculate an average temperature from the data received from multiple temperature sensors within a single insulating container 200. Accordingly, the one or more processes executed by the computer device 206 to receive temperature data may be executed at block 902.

[70] The computer device 206 may execute one or more comparison processes to compare received temperature sensor data to one or more threshold temperature values associated with the insulating container 200. It is contemplated that any threshold temperatures may be utilized without departing from the scope of these disclosures. Accordingly, if the detected temperature within the insulating container 200 is below a threshold temperature, flowchart 900 may proceed back to block 902 such that the computer device 206 may execute a looped process that continuously or periodically monitors the temperature within the insulating container 200. If, however, the detected temperature within the insulating container 200 is above a threshold temperature, flowchart 900 may proceed to one or more of blocks 906 and/or 908. In one example, the computer device 206 may communicate a message to a user indicating that the temperature within the insulating container 200 has risen above a threshold level. This message may be communicated to the user via one or more of the network interfaces (e.g. WAN interface 308, LAN interface 310, and/or cellular network interface 312). The message communicated to the user may include, in one example, a recommendation to add additional ice, dry ice, cold pack such as YETI Ice, or other cooling mediums to the insulating container 200. In another example, the message communicated to the user may additionally or alternatively indicate to the user that the ice has melted and recommend draining the liquid water (melted ice) from the insulating container 200. Further, the insulating container 200 may be equipped with a vent/ port that may be electronically actuated, and may be utilized to drain the liquid water from the internal storage cavity within the insulating container 200. As such, the user may respond to the message with a request that the port be opened and the liquid water be drained. In one implementation, the message may be communicated to the user at block 906 of flowchart 900.

[71] Additionally or alternatively, the computer device 206 may activate a beacon in response to detecting an internal temperature of the insulating container 200 above a threshold level. The beacon may include an audible signal, a visual signal, or a haptic signal outputted from the insulating container 200 via one or more integrated speakers, output displays, and/or vibratory motors, among others. The one or more processes executed to activate a beacon in response to the internal temperature of the insulating container 200 increasing above a threshold may be executed at block 908.

[72] It is contemplated that the insulating container 200 may be utilized to keep internal contents above, rather than below a threshold temperature level. Accordingly one or more processes executed by the insulating container 200 may determine if the internal temperature of the insulating container 200 is below a threshold temperature, and processes similar to those described in relation to blocks 906 and/or 908 may be executed by the computer device 206 if the internal temperature of the insulating container 200 is below a threshold level.

Mass Sensor

[73] In one example, the insulating container 200 may be embodied with a sensor configured to detect mass, which may otherwise be referred to as a weight sensor. As such, one or more of sensors 326a and/or 326b may comprise a mass sensor that may output data that may be received and processed by the computer device 206. It is contemplated that any mass sensor technology may be utilized with the insulating container 200, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. In one example, one or more strain gauges may be integrated into the insulating container 200. Additionally or alternatively, the insulating container 200 may comprise one or more piezoelectric sensors. It is further contemplated that the one or more mass sensors may be positioned on or within the insulating container 200 in any spatial configuration, without departing from the scope of these disclosures.

[74] FIG. 10 is a flowchart diagram 1000 that may be utilized to determine a mass of items contained within an insulating container 200, according to one or more aspects described herein. In one implementation, the computer device 206 may be configured to receive data (either raw or processed data) from one or more mass sensors (e.g. sensor 326a and/or 326b). One or more processes executed by the computer device 206 to receive first the mass sensor data may be executed at block 1002. Additionally or alternatively, the computer device 206 may receive first data from an internal image-capturing sensor. This image data may comprise one or more still or video image sequences depicting the contents of a storage cavity of the insulating container 200. As such, the computer device 206 may receive first data from the internal image-capturing sensor at block 1004. The computer device 206 may utilize one or more of the first mass sensor data and/or the first image-capturing sensor data to determine that the insulating container 200 is empty. In one example, the mass sensor data may be utilized to determine that the insulating container 200 is empty when the data outputted from the mass sensor is below a threshold amount. It is contemplated that the computer device 206 may utilize one or more data filtering processes to exclude noise from the mass sensor data, and it is also contemplated that any threshold mass may be utilized to determine that the insulating container 200 is empty. Additionally or alternatively, one or more image recognition processes may be executed on the received the first image-capturing sensor data to determine that the insulating container 200 is empty. These one or more processes to determine that the insulating container is empty may be executed at block 1006.

[75] It is contemplated that one or more of the mass sensor and/or the image-capturing sensor may periodically transmit data to the computer device 206 or may transmit data upon detecting an environmental change associated with the insulating container 200 (e.g. an environmental change corresponding to a change in mass, as detected by the mass sensor, or a detected change in contents of the insulating container, as detected by the image-capturing sensor). As such, the computer device 206 may receive second data from the mass sensor at block 1008. Additionally or alternatively, the computer device 206 may receive second data from the internal image-capturing sensor at block 1010. Upon receipt of one or more of the second mass sensor data and/or the second internal image-capturing sensor data, the computer device 206 may execute one or more processes to determine that ice or other cooling medium has been added to the insulating container. As such, one or more image recognition processes executed at block 1012 may identify ice and other cooling mediums within the insulating container 200. Additionally, one or more processes executed at block 1012 may determine a mass associated with the ice added to the insulating container 200. Additionally or alternatively, at step 1012 the insulating device can take a temperature reading to determine whether ice or a cooling medium has been added.

[76] Third sensor data from the mass sensor may be received by the computer device 206 at block 1014. Additionally or alternatively, third sensor data from the internal image- capturing sensor may be received by the computer device 206 at block 1016. The computer device 206 may utilize one or more of the third mass sensor data and/or the third image- capturing sensor data to determine that consumable goods (e.g. food and/or drinks) have been added to the insulating container 200. Additionally, the computer device 206 may determine and store a total mass associated with the added consumable goods, as well as the ice already within the insulating container 200. These one or more processes may be executed at block 1018.

[77] The mass sensor associated with the insulating container 200 may output forth sensor data. Accordingly, this fourth sensor data may be received by the computer device 206 at block 1020. In one example, the fourth mass sensor data may indicate that the total mass of the contents of the insulating container 200 has been reduced. This reduction may correspond to one or more of the consumable goods previously stored within the insulating container 200 being consumed. The computer device 206 may compare the determined total mass of the contents of the insulating container 200 to one or more threshold values. In one example, the computer device 206 may determine that the total mass of the contents of the insulating container 200 is below a threshold. It will be appreciated that any threshold values may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. As such, the one or more processes executed by the computer device 206 to determine that the consumable goods within the insulating container 200 may be below a threshold level may be executed at block 1022. [78] In response to determining that the consumable goods stored within the insulating container 200 may be below a threshold level, one or more processes may be executed to communicate a message to a user of the insulating container 200. In certain embodiments, one or more of the network interfaces (e.g. WAN at interface 308, LAN interface 310, and/or cellular network interface 312) may be utilized to communicate this message to the user. As such, the message may include an indication that the user should restock the insulating container with consumable goods. These one or more processes to communicate a message to the user may be executed at block 1024. It is contemplated that the processes executed by the computer device 206 using the received mass sensor and image-capturing sensor data may identify specific types of goods stored within the insulating container 200 using one or more image recognition processes. As such, in one example, the computer device 206 may be utilized to identify and calculate a number of drinks cans/bottles stored within the insulating container 200, among others.

Image-capturing sensor

[79] Sensor 326a and/or 326b may comprise an image-capturing sensor. It is contemplated that the image-capturing sensor may comprise multiple discrete sensors positioned to capture images internally within the insulating container 200 (i.e. images of an internal storage cavity within the insulating container 200) and/or of the external surroundings of the insulating container 200. The image capturing sensor may utilize any imaging technology configured to output data that may be used to communicate still and/or video imagery. Accordingly, it is contemplated that an image-capturing sensor for use with the insulating container 200 may utilize a CCD or CMOS sensor, and with any pixel resolution or size characteristics. Additionally, it is contemplated that the image-capturing sensor for use with the insulating container 200 may comprise one or more of: mechanical or software -based image stabilization, an artificial light source (a flash element), any focus technology (mechanical and/or software-based), and/or any lens elements, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, the computer device 206 may utilize image processing software on data received from the image-capturing sensor. This image processing software may comprise image recognition and/or measurement tools. However, it is contemplated that the computer device 206 may utilize any image processes, without departing from the scope of these disclosures.

[80] In one example, it may be advantageous to receive and store image-capturing sensor data related to the contents of an insulating container 200. FIG. 11 is a flowchart diagram 1100 that may be executed by the computer device 206 in order to receive the captured image data. In one implementation, a user may request an image of the internal contents of the insulating container 200. This request from the user may be received through one or more of the interfaces 308, 310, 312 and/or 314. In another example, a request for an image of the internal contents of the insulating container 200 may be automatically (periodically or otherwise) received by the computer device 206. In yet another example, the computer device 206 may receive a request for one or more images of the internal contents of the insulating container 200 upon detecting that the insulating container 200 has been opened, or following a delay period after the insulating container 200 has been closed. In one implementation, a request for an image of the internal contents of the insulating container 200 may be received and processed at block 1102.

[81] If the one or more images of the internal contents of the insulating container 200 are to be obtained when the insulating container 200 is in a closed configuration, one or more internal lighting sources may be activated prior to capturing the images. Accordingly, one or more lighting devices may be embodied as controlled device 328. It is contemplated that any lighting technology and color/power/brightness rating may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. It is also contemplated that the image-capturing device may utilize an infrared sensor, and the lighting source may comprise an infrared lighting source, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. The computer device 206 may communicate instructions to illuminate one or more internal lighting devices at block 1104. In other examples, the image of the internal contents of the insulating container 200 may be captured when the insulating container 200 is in an open configuration. In this instance, a light intensity sensor/light meter a be utilized to determine a lighting level within the immediate environment of the insulating container 200, and evaluate if artificial lighting provided by one or more lighting sources integrated into the insulating container 200 will be needed. If the light intensity sensor indicates that the ambient lighting is sufficient such that artificial lighting provided by one or more light sources integrated into the insulating container 200 is not needed, the flowchart may proceed directly from block 1102 to block 1106.

[82] The computer device 206 may receive image data in the form of analog or digital information, and in a raw or processed form. Is contemplated that any image file types or compression methodologies may be utilized with these disclosures. Accordingly, one or more processes executed by the computer device 206 to receive image data from the image- capturing sensor may be executed at block 1106. The computer device 206, upon receipt of the image data from the image-capturing sensor, may execute one or more processes to improve the image quality, or identify elements within the image data, among others. For example, the computer device 206 may adjust the contrast such that the content of the image is more readily identifiable. In another example, the computer device 206 may identify, using one or more image recognition processes, one or more goods/products stored within the insulating container. The computer device 206 may further communicate the image data to the user of the insulating container through one or more of the WAN interface 308, LAN interface 310, cellular network interface 312, and/or input/output module 314. The one or more processes executed by the computer device 206 to communicate the image data to the user may be executed at block 1108.

Image Recognition

[83] Various processes executed by the computer device 206 within the insulating container 200 may be utilized to identify products/goods stored within the insulating container 200. Accordingly, FIG. 12 depicts a flowchart diagram 1200 that may be utilized to identify information related to items stored within the insulating container 200, according to one or more aspects described herein. In one example, one or more image recognition processes may be executed on image data related to items stored within the insulating container 200 in response to a sensor trigger. The sensor trigger may comprise instructions received from a user via one or more of the interfaces 308, 310, 312, and/or 314. In another example, the sensor trigger may comprise data received from a contact/pressure sensor, or an accelerometer sensor indicating that the lid structure 204 of the insulating container 200 has been opened. As such, the sensor trigger may be received at block 1202 of flowchart 1200. Optionally, in response to receiving the sensor trigger, the computer device 206 may execute a process to receive images from an external image-capturing sensor. In this way, in one example, when the insulating container 200 is open, the computer device 206 may capture one or more images of the person who opened the insulating container 200. These one or more processes to for receiving image data from one or more external image-capturing sensors integrated into the insulating container 200 may be executed at block 1204. Further, the received image data may be communicated to a user of the insulating container 200 via one or more of the interfaces 308, 310, 312, and/or 314. As such, the image data may be communicated to the user at block 1212. [84] Optionally, the sensor trigger may indicate that the insulating container 200 has been closed. As such, a process executed by the computer device 206 may, at block 1206, determine that the sensor trigger indicates that the insulating container 200 has been closed. In response, the computer device may, at block 1210, receive image data from one or more internal image-capturing sensors. The computer device 206 may execute an image recognition process on the received image data from the one or more internal image- capturing sensors at decision block 1214. If no elements within the captured images are recognized, flowchart 1200 may proceed to block 1216, and the computer device 206 may communicate the captured image data to a user of the insulating container 200. If, however, one or more elements are recognized within the captured image data, an additional image analysis tool process may be executed on the data, and results of the additional analysis communicated to the user of the insulating container 200. The additional analysis may be executed at block 1218 by the computer device 206. In one specific example, the insulating container 200 may be utilized while fishing, and the further analysis executed at block 1218 may identify/estimate a size and species of fish caught by the user of the insulating container 200.

Locking Mechanism

[85] In one implementation, the controlled device 328 may comprise a mechanical mechanism configured to lock the insulating container 200. Accordingly, the locking mechanism may comprise a mechanical hook or bolt. Further, it is contemplated that any locking mechanism that may be electronically and/or manually actuated may be utilized with the insulating container 200, without departing from the scope of these disclosures.

[86] In one example, the computer device 206 may execute one or more processes to automatically lock the locking mechanism 328 of the insulating container 200 when the user moves beyond a predetermined auto-lock radius from the insulating container 200. Conversely, the computer device 206 may be configured to automatically unlock the locking mechanism 328 when the user is within the predetermined auto-block radius from the insulating container 200. In one example, the auto-lock radius may be detected by the computer device 206 by comparing a detected geographic location of the insulating container 200 to a geographic location of the user, as reported by a portable device (e.g. a smartphone, among others) in the possession of the user. In another example, the computer device 206 may detect that the user is within a predetermined distance (e.g. the auto-lock radius) of the insulating container 200 based upon a detected RFID chip carried by the user (e.g. an RFID chip in a card carried in the user's wallet, an RFID signal outputted from a user's smartphone, or an RFID attached to an item of clothing worn by the user, among others). It is contemplated that any auto-lock radius may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures.

Additional Sensors and Controlled Devices

[87] The insulating container 200 may utilize a UV sensor (e.g. sensor 326a and/or 326b) that is configured to detect ultraviolet (UV) radiation incident on one or more external surfaces of the insulating container 200. The computer device 206 may be configured to receive the UV information, which may be utilized to determine if the inserting container 200 has been positioned in direct sunlight and send a warning or alarm to the user after a predetermined amount of time to indicate to the user to move the insulating container from the sunlight. In one implementation, the computer device 206 may monitor a cumulative amount of time that the insulating container 200 has been exposed to sunlight, and may advise a user that one or more polymers that make up the structure of the insulating container 200 may degrade/fade in color if the cumulative amount of time exposed to sunlight reaches a threshold amount. It is contemplated that any threshold amount may be utilized, without prejudice scope of these disclosures.

[88] The insulating container 200 may additionally or alternatively be embodied with a chemical composition sensor (e.g. sensor 326a and/or 326b) that may be utilized to determine a composition of air within a storage cavity of the insulating container 200. In one example, the chemical composition sensor may be utilized to detect if mold/ bacteria is growing in the insulating container 200. In response, the computer device 206 may communicate a message advising that the insulating container 200 should be cleaned. In another example, the chemical composition sensor may be utilized to detect an amount of carbon dioxide in the air within the insulating container 200, which may, in one example, be monitored when the insulating container 200 utilizes dry ice as a source of cooling. In one implementation, the chemical composition sensor may communicate a signal to the computer device 206, and in response, the computer device 206 may send a message to a user of the insulating container 200 indicating that the insulating container should be cleaned/ refilled with dry ice, among others. In another example, the computer device 206 may open a vent/valve on the insulating container 200 to release gas/liquid from a storage cavity of the insulating container 200. [89] In one implementation, the controlled device 328 may comprise a mechanism configured to release a scent into the insulating container 200. As such, the scent may be released periodically, or upon detection of certain compounds within the air composition within the insulating container 200. The insulating device 200 may also be configured to release a scent when approached by an animal. In this way, the insulating device can determine whether an animal is present and release a scent accordingly to try to prevent the animal from coming close to the insulating device.

[90] The controlled device 328 of the insulating container 200 may comprise an air vent and fan mechanism that may be utilized to circulate air within an internal storage cavity within the insulating container 200. In one example, the vent and fan mechanism may be positioned within the insulating container 200 such that the base structure 202 remains watertight. In another example, the insulating container 200 may comprise a circulation fan configured to circulate air within the internal cavity of the insulating container 200, but without drawing in/expelling air from/to the external environment. Additionally, the insulating container 200 may comprise an air flow sensor.

[91] In one implementation, the insulating container 200 may comprise an electronic scale integrated into the lid structure 204 such that the insulating container 200 may be utilized to measure a mass of an object placed on top of the insulating container 200. Accordingly, this lid structure scale may utilize one or more mass sensors 326b, as previously discussed in this disclosure.

[92] The controlled device 328 of the insulating container 200 may comprise one or more external lights configured to provide ambient lighting to the surroundings of the insulating container 200. It is contemplated that any light technology may be utilized, without departing from the scope of these disclosures. In certain examples, the external lights may be utilized in a night vision mode such that the external lights are colored red and/or green.

[93] In another example, the insulating container 200 can be outfitted with a heating element for keeping the contents therein warm or a cooling element for keeping the contents cool. The heating and cooling elements may be implemented as the controlled device 328, and controlled by the computer device 206. In one implementation, a temperature sensor, which may be similar to the temperature sensors previously described herein, may be utilized with the heating and/or cooling device to maintain the insulating container 200 at a temperature set by the user on a user interface. Further, it is contemplated that any meeting or cooling technologies may be utilized with the insulating container 200, without praying from the scope of these disclosures. For example, heat energy may be added to an internal storage cavity of the insulating container 200 via one or more of an electric heating element or an exothermic reaction (e.g. mixing of two or more chemicals, or combustion of a fossil fuel, among others).

Diagnostic and Use Information

[94] As discussed throughout this disclosure, the insulating container 200 may be embodied with a plurality of sensor types (e.g. sensors 326a and/or 326b) and control devices (e.g. controlled device 328). These sensors may be utilized to optionally provide the manufacturer and/or owner with information related to the insulating container 200. Such information may include an elapsed time since a time of manufacture of the insulating container 200, an elapsed time since the insulating container 200 was sold to the owner, an elapsed time since the insulating container 200 was first used, an elapsed time since the insulating container 200 was last used and/or a total amount of time spent using the insulating container 200, among others.

[95] In certain examples, location-determining sensor data may be utilized to store and list the places in which the insulating container 200 has been used. Location-determining sensor data and/or barometer data may be utilized to determine changes in elevation as the insulating container 200 is transported. Accelerometer sensor data may be utilized to estimate an amount of physical wear and tear the insulating container 200 has likely encountered. Accelerometer sensor data and/or mass sensor data may be utilized to record a maximum force experienced by the insulating container, which may correspond to the insulating container 200 being dropped, and may be utilized to predict failure of one or more components of the insulating container 200. This information, in turn, may be utilized to communicate a warning message to a user/manufacturer indicating that the insulating container 200 may need to be inspected for damage, or have one or more components replaced. This data may also be communicated to the user such that the user can learn how hard their insulating device has been hit.

[96] The insulating container 200 may also be embodied with a reference identification number that may be identifiable as a physical marking on the insulating container, and/or detectable as a RFID chip embedded within the insulating container 200 or as an identifier number transmitted by the computer device 206. [97] In certain examples, sensor data received from the sensors onboard the insulating container 200 may be utilized to communicate advertisements/coupon offers from one or more vendors related to products previously used by the user of the insulating container 200. For example, a vendor may communicate a coupon offer to a user based upon one or more brands of products stored within the insulating container 200, as detected by one or more internal image-capturing sensors, and/or based upon a user- inputted list of products/brands.

[98] In one example, an insulating container may be associated with a first user, and may communicate information to a second user. As such, the first user may be using the insulating container 200, and the second user may be contacted by the computer device 206 to order one or more consumable goods that are running low/depleted from a storage cavity within the insulating container 200. In one specific example, the first user may be a lodge/hotel guest, and the second user may be the lodge/hotel, such that the large/hotel is informed by the computer device 206 when, in one example, ice or beverages are running low within the insulating container 200.

Software Application

[99] A software application may be utilized to communicate with the computer device 206 of the insulating container 200. The software application may be configured to run on a portable device in the possession of a user of the insulating container 200. As such, the software application may comprise a smartphone, tablet or smartwatch app. In another example, the software application may be executed on a laptop or desktop computer. The software application may additionally or alternatively be implemented as a web application accessible through a web browser. As such, a user may communicate information between the software application and the computer device 206 through the WAN 350, LAN 352 and/or cellular network 354. In yet another example, the software application may be executed locally by the computer device 206. In this example of the software application being executed locally by the computer device 206, a user may input information via the input/output module 314, and using a dedicated remote control (IR, RF, Wi-Fi remote, among others), or using one or more interface devices, including, among others, a pointing device, keyboard, microphone, speaker, display, touch display (capacitive/resistive touch screen, among others, or haptic device, or combinations thereof.

[100] The software application may be configured to communicate information about the insulating container 200 to the user and/or to facilitate control of one or more of the sensors 326a/326b and/or controlled devices 328. In certain examples, the software application may provide output information related to all of the processes discussed throughout this disclosure. Additionally, the software application may be configured to provide a color- coded graphical output based upon one or more detected temperatures within the insulating container 200. In this way, a temperature distribution within the insulating container 200 may be provided. In another example, a schematic cross-sectional view of the insulating container 200 may be provided through the software application, which may include a schematic depiction of the types and number of goods stored within the insulating container 200. In another example, the software application may provide the user with an indication of a temperature change and change in mass of the insulating container 200 throughout a period of time (e.g. throughout the course of a predefined social event, among others).

[101] In another example, the software application may be utilized to communicate one or more advertisements to the user, based upon one or more products previously detected by the computer device 206 within the insulin container 200. For example, if the application detects that the insulating container 200 is low on a certain type of beverage or product, the application may send advertisements or coupons related to that type of beverage or product, or a related type of beverage or product, and may also indicate to the user a nearby retailer location for purchase. In another example, the software application may be utilized to communicate that the ice level or cooling medium is low, and can indicate to the user the closest location to obtain ice and may also issue advertisements or coupons related to nearby retailer locations for purchasing. The advertisements and coupons may be issued directly to the user's computing device, e.g., smartphone, smartwatch, or tablet.

[102] The software application may be utilized to communicate a list of items stored within the insulating container 200. In one example, the software application may be utilized to communicate a total number of pounds of fish caught by the user during a fishing trip (e.g. break down a mass of contents of the insulating container 200 into a mass of fish caught, and a mass of ice stored in the insulating container), or a total number of beverages consumed during a selectable amount of time.

[103] In one implementation, the software application may be configured to execute voice recognition processes. Accordingly, a user may solicit information about the insulating container 200 using voice input. In one specific example, a user may ask how many beverages are left within the insulating container. In response, the computer device 206 may execute one or more of the processes discussed throughout this disclosure, and communicate an estimated number of beverages remaining within the insulating container 200.

[104] In another example, the software application may be configured to output audible or visual instructions to the user. In one example, the instructions may provide updates on sports events scores, or may keep score of one or more yard games being played by the users of the insulating container 200. The software application may also be configured to play a broadcast of a sporting event on a display and/or speaker located on the insulating device 200. Additionally, the software can be configured to output a video and/or audio signal from a user's computing device, e.g. smartphone, smartwatch, or tablet, and using wireless connectivity (e.g. Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi), or a wired connection. As such, the insulating container 200 can receive the video and/or audio signal, and project the signal on a display and/or speaker located on the insulating device 200.

[105] The software application may be configured to provide feedback on a remaining energy left stored in the power supply 324, which may be communicated as an estimated number of minutes, hours, or days remaining before the power supply 324 will need to be recharged or replaced.

[106] It is generally noted that, throughout this disclosure, multiple sensor types and controlled device types have been discussed in relation to elements 326a/326b and 328. It is to be understood that the described sensors and controlled devices can be used in combination with one another such that a single computer device 206 may be configured to utilize a combination of different sensors and controlled devices, and utilize/execute a combination of all or part of those processes described in relation to FIGS. 3-12, among others.

[107] The various embodiments described herein may be implemented by general-purpose or specialized computer hardware. In one example, the computer hardware may comprise one or more processors, otherwise referred to as microprocessors, having one or more processing cores configured to allow for parallel processing/execution of instructions. As such, the various disclosures described herein may be implemented as software coding, wherein those of skill in the computer arts will recognize various coding languages that may be employed with the disclosures described herein. Additionally, the disclosures described herein may be utilized in the implementation of application- specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or in the implementation of various electronic components comprising conventional electronic circuits (otherwise referred to as off-the-shelf components). Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the various descriptions included in this disclosure may be implemented as data signals communicated using a variety of different technologies and processes. For example, the descriptions of the various disclosures described herein may be understood as comprising one or more streams of data signals, data instructions, or requests, and physically communicated as bits or symbols represented by differing voltage levels, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields, optical fields, or combinations thereof.

[108] One or more of the disclosures described herein may comprise a computer program product having computer-readable medium/media with instructions stored thereon/therein that, when executed by a processor, are configured to perform one or more methods, techniques, systems, or embodiments described herein. As such, the instructions stored on the computer-readable media may comprise actions to be executed for performing various steps of the methods, techniques, systems, or embodiments described herein. Furthermore, the computer-readable medium/media may comprise a storage medium with instructions configured to be processed by a computing device, and specifically a processor associated with a computing device. As such the computer-readable medium may include a form of persistent or volatile memory such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), an optical disk (CD-ROMs, DVDs), tape drives, floppy disk, ROM, RAM, EPROM, EEPROM, DRAM, VRAM, flash memory, RAID devices, remote data storage (cloud storage, and the like), or any other media type or storage device suitable for storing data thereon/therein. Additionally, combinations of different storage media types may be implemented into a hybrid storage device. In one implementation, a first storage medium may be prioritized over a second storage medium, such that different workloads may be implemented by storage media of different priorities.

[109] Further, the computer-readable media may store software code/instructions configured to control one or more of a general-purpose, or a specialized computer. Said software may be utilized to facilitate interface between a human user and a computing device, and wherein said software may include device drivers, operating systems, and applications. As such, the computer-readable media may store software code/instructions configured to perform one or more implementations described herein.

[110] Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, techniques, or method steps of those implementations described herein may be implemented as electronic hardware devices, computer software, or combinations thereof. As such, various illustrative modules/components have been described throughout this disclosure in terms of general functionality, wherein one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the described disclosures may be implemented as hardware, software, or combinations of both.

[Ill] The one or more implementations described throughout this disclosure may utilize logical blocks, modules, and circuits that may be implemented or performed with a general- purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application- specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[112] The techniques or steps of a method described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in software executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. In some embodiments, any software module, software layer, or thread described herein may comprise an engine comprising firmware or software and hardware configured to perform embodiments described herein. Functions of a software module or software layer described herein may be embodied directly in hardware, or embodied as software executed by a processor, or embodied as a combination of the two. A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor such that the processor can read data from, and write data to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in a user device. In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium may reside as discrete components in a user device.

Claims

We Claim:

1. An insulating container comprising: a storage compartment; a closure configured to seal the storage compartment; an access sensor; a proximity sensor; an actuator device coupled to the closure; and a computer device, further comprising: a processor; and a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions that when executed by the processor are configured to: receive data from the access sensor indicating that the insulating container has been open for a threshold amount of time; receive proximity sensor data from the proximity sensor; communicate instructions to the actuator device to close the closure of the insulating container upon detecting, from the received proximity sensor data, no activity within a detection area of the insulating container; and communicate a warning message upon detecting, from the received proximity sensor data, activity within the detection area of the insulating container.

2. The insulating container of claim 1, wherein the access sensor comprises an accelerometer sensor.

3. The insulating container of claim 1, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the processor, are further configured to: detect if a message acknowledgement has been received in response to the warning message; communicate instructions to the actuator device to close the insulating container upon detecting that the message acknowledgement has not been received within a threshold amount of time; and restart a waiting period upon determining that the message acknowledgement has been received within a threshold amount of time.

4. An insulating container comprising: a storage compartment; a location-determining sensor; a computer device, further comprising: a processor; and a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions that when executed by the processor are configured to: receive location data from the location-determining sensor; communicate an alarm message upon determining that the insulating container is outside of an authorized geographic area; and communicate a status message upon determining that the insulating container is within the authorized geographic area.

5. The insulating container of claim 4, wherein the location-determining sensor comprises a GPS sensor.

6. The insulating container of claim 4, wherein the alarm message comprises data communicated to a user of the insulating container though a wide area network.

7. The insulating container of claim 4, further comprising a speaker, and wherein the alarm message comprises an audible siren.

8. An insulating container comprising: a beacon device; a location-determining sensor; a computer device, further comprising: a processor; and a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions that when executed by the processor are configured to: receive a request for a location of the insulating container; receive location data from the location-determining sensor; communicate a location message to a requestor; and activate the beacon device.

9. The insulating container of claim 8, wherein the request is received from a user through a wide area network interface of the computer device.

10. The insulating container of claim 8, wherein the beacon comprises an audible siren.

11. The insulating container of claim 8, wherein the beacon comprises a visual indicator on the insulating container.

12. An insulating container comprising: a storage compartment; an image-capturing device mounted to the insulating container; a computer device, further comprising: a processor; and a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions that when executed by the processor are configured to: receive a request for a location of the insulating container; receive image data from the image-capturing device; and communicate a portion of the image data to a requestor.

13. An insulating container comprising: a location-determining sensor; a computer device, further comprising: a processor; and a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions that when executed by the processor are configured to: receive location data from the location-determining sensor; receive, through a network interface, a weather warning; compare a geographic area to which the weather warning is applicable to a geographic location of the insulating container determined from the received location data; communicate an alarm message to a user of the insulating container if the weather warning is applicable to the geographic location of the insulating container; and store the weather warning if the weather warning is not applicable to the geographic location of the insulating container.

14. An insulating container comprising: a mass sensor mounted within the insulating container; an image-capturing sensor mounted on the insulating container; a computer device, further comprising: a processor; and a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions that when executed by the processor are configured to: receive first data from the mass sensor and the image-capturing sensor; determine, from the first data, that the insulating container is empty; receive second data from the mass sensor and the image-capturing sensor; determine, from the second data, that a cooling medium has been added to the insulating container; receive third data from the mass sensor and the image-capturing sensor; determine, from the third data, that consumable goods have been added to the insulating container; receive fourth data from the mass sensor; determine, from the fourth data, that the consumable goods are below a threshold amount within the insulating container; and communicate a message to a user of the insulating container indicating that the consumable goods are below the threshold amount.

15. The insulating container of claim 14, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the processor, are further configured to: execute an image recognition process on the third data to identify a type of consumable good.