FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present disclosure generally relates to cooling devices and more specifically to climate controlling lids for regulating temperatures by actively modulating energy flow from one space to another.
BACKGROUND
A cooler may be used to keep items placed inside at a reduced temperature. For example, various items such as (but not limited to) foods, drinks, perishables, medical supplies, etc. may be placed inside of a cooler, where the temperature inside of the cooler is lower than the temperature outside of the cooler (may also be referred to as “ambient temperature”). Typically, ice cubes are placed inside of the cooler to help keep the items inside stay cool. Coolers may be portable and taken to various outings such as (but not limited to) picnics, sporting events, etc. In addition, coolers may be used to transport items from one location (e.g., a grocery store) to another location (e.g., home).
Typically, coolers may have at least a hollow interior and a lid. The lid may open and close and, when open, allow for a user to insert items inside of the cooler's hollow interior. Further, coolers may also have built-in cup holders and/or other compartments. Coolers may come in a variety of sizes such as (but not limited to) small personal coolers to larger family size coolers. Coolers may also be reusable made with interior and exterior shells of plastic with hard foam in between the interior and exterior shells. Coolers may also be disposable made with disposable material (e.g., polystyrene foam).
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The various embodiments of the present climate control lids have several features, no single one of which is solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the present embodiments as expressed by the claims that follow, their more prominent features now will be discussed briefly. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description,” one will understand how the features of the present embodiments provide the advantages described herein.
One aspect of the present embodiments includes the realization that coolers may be used to preserve perishables in a wide variety of environments using a variety of cooling medium (e.g., ice, dry ice, cold packs, etc.) to chill and/or freeze the contents inside the cooler. However, there are many drawbacks that may be improved upon. For example, ice may be heavy, it may melt, and it may be wet. Dry ice may provide two times the cooling energy of ice by weight and three times the cooling energy by volume which may make dry ice a more suitable candidate for cooling performance; however, dry ice may sublimate fairly quickly based on its surface area and surrounding conditions. Further, dry ice may not last once it evaporates, and once it has an air change to the atmosphere it may dissipate. Also, dry ice may be dangerous when exposed and may cause harm to inadvertent contact. Moreover, dry ice may cause freezer burn when it directly or closely touches certain perishable foods. In addition, dry ice may also inadvertently freeze cooler products, foods and beverages, that may not be intended to be frozen and thus damaging and/or rendering the items unusable by the consumer. Although a few recommended practices may mitigate some of these problems, such practices are not solutions. For example, use of cold packs may take up critical cooler space and may not be as energy dense. Further, such recommended practices do not allow an end user to set, regulate with an appropriate amount of control, track, and/or confirm temperature inside a cooler. Likewise, such problems may also exist for insulated boxes used for shipping perishable goods and/or medical supplies. Further, coolers and/or insulated boxes (may be collectively referred to as “cooler”) may result in stagnate air that causes a vertical temperature gradient to develop within the cooler. The present embodiments solve these problems by providing climate controlling lids (“CCL”) that may be used in conjunction with a receptacle or insulated divider (the combination of the CCL and the receptacle may also be referred to as a “cold box”) that contains a cooling medium for regulating temperature in an environment (e.g., a cooler).
Another aspect of the present embodiments includes the realization that when a standard cooler is used, air within the cooler exchanges with the atmospheric air each time the cooler is opened. Without a separate cold box, dry ice may sub-cool the air within the cooler and therefore, when the air is exchanged with the atmosphere, more cooling energy may be lost than when the temperature is controlled and cooled to a desired setpoint rather than subcooled. As precision and control are expected from home refrigerators and freezers, CCLs may provide such control for portable coolers enjoyed while outside of the home. The CCL may be handy to take to the store along with a container for carrying dry ice pellets and/or blocks safely while preserving them. The dry ice may then be stored in a deep freezer while limiting sublimation and conveniently placed into an end user's hard or soft cooler for enjoying any activity such as (but not limited to) a recreational event, shopping trip, or the great outdoors. These and other aspects and advantages of the present embodiments are described in further detail below.
In a first aspect, a climate controlling lid (“CCL”) configured to receive a receptacle containing a cooling medium is provided, the CCL comprising: a temperature sensor configured to measure an external temperature, wherein the external temperature is a temperature reading external to the CCL and the receptacle; and a fan configured to: intake air from an external space of the CCL, wherein the intake air flows into the receptacle; and discharge air back to the external space of the CCL.
In an embodiment of the first aspect, the CCL further comprises a processing module comprising: a processor operatively connected to the temperature sensor and the fan; and a memory storing a program comprising instructions that, when executed by the processor, causes the CCL to measure the external temperature using the temperature sensor and to power on the fan.
In another embodiment of the first aspect, the program further comprises instructions that, when executed by the processor, further causes the CCL to measure an internal temperature using the temperature sensor, wherein the internal temperature is a temperature reading internal to the CCL and the receptacle.
In another embodiment of the first aspect, the CCL further comprises a display, wherein the processor is operatively connected to the display, and the program further comprises instructions that, when executed by the processor, further causes the CCL to display the external temperature.
In another embodiment of the first aspect, the CCL further comprises a control interface, wherein the processor is operatively connected to the control interface, and the program further comprises instructions that, when executed by the processor, further causes the CCL to receive at least one user input.
In another embodiment of the first aspect, the control interface comprises a temperature down control.
In another embodiment of the first aspect, the control interface comprises a temperature setpoint adjustment control.
In another embodiment of the first aspect, the CCL further comprises a passive infrared (“PIR”) sensor, wherein the processor is operatively connected to the PIR sensor, and the program further comprises instructions that, when executed by the processor, further causes the CCL to illuminate the exterior space of the CCL.
In another embodiment of the first aspect, the CCL further comprises a communication module, wherein the processor is operatively connected to the communication module, and the program further comprises instructions that, when executed by the processor, further causes the CCL to receive wireless communication from an external control device.
In another embodiment of the first aspect, the CCL further comprises a seal configured to provide a liquid/gas seal around an interface between the CCL and the receptacle.
In another embodiment of the first aspect, the CCL further comprises a release valve configured to relieve pressure inside of the CCL and receptacle.
In another embodiment of the first aspect, the CCL further comprises an insulative barrier configured to limit flow of heat energy from the external space of the CCL to an interior of the CCL and receptacle.
In a second aspect, a climate controlling lid (“CCL”) configured to receive a receptacle containing a cooling medium is provided, the CCL comprising: a fan; a first component comprising: at least one air port; and a first cavity and a second cavity; a second component comprising a third cavity and a fourth cavity; and wherein rotating the first component energizes the fan to: intake air from an external space of the CCL, wherein the intake air flows into the receptacle; and discharge air back to the external space of the CCL.
In an embodiment of the second aspect, rotating the first component opens internal air ports by aligning the first cavity with the third cavity and the second cavity with the fourth cavity allowing for air flow through the CCL.
In another embodiment of the second aspect, the second component comprises a first recess for mounting the fan.
In another embodiment of the second aspect, the fourth cavity comprises an increased channel opening to accommodate air moved by the fan.
In another embodiment of the second aspect, the first component comprises a divider separating the first component into a first section and a second section, wherein the CCL intakes air via a first air port located on the first section and the CCL expels air via a second air port located on the second section.
In another embodiment of the second aspect, the CCL further comprises a temperature sensor positioned on the first section of the first component to measure temperature of the intake air.
In another embodiment of the second aspect, the CCL further comprises a third component comprising a base comprising a fifth cavity and a sixth cavity, wherein the rotating of the first component opens internal airports by aligning the first and third cavities with the fifth cavity, and the second and fourth cavities with the sixth cavity allowing for air flow through the CCL.
In another embodiment of the second aspect, the third component comprises a shaft connecting the third component to the first and second components.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The various embodiments of the present climate control lids now will be discussed in detail with an emphasis on highlighting the advantageous features. These embodiments depict the novel and non-obvious climate control lids shown in the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only. These drawings include the following figures:
FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of a climate control lid (“CCL”) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 1B is an exploded view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a first component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of a first component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2C is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a first component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2D is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a first component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2E is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a second component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2F is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of a second component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2G is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a second component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2H is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a second component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2I is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a third component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 2J is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of a third component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 3C is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 3D is a schematic diagram illustrating another cross-sectional view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4A is a top perspective view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4B is a bottom perspective view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4C is an exploded view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The various embodiments of the present climate control lids (“CCLs”) contain several features, no single one of which is solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the present embodiments, their more prominent features will now be discussed below. In particular, the present CCLs will be discussed in the context of coolers. However, the use of CCLs for controlling and/or regulating temperatures in coolers is merely exemplary as CCLs may be utilized for various settings and situations as appropriate to the requirements of a specific application in accordance with embodiments of the invention. Further, the use of a particular cooling medium such as dry ice is also exemplary, and various other suitable cooling medium may be utilized in combination with, or in place of, dry ice as appropriate to the requirements of a specific application in accordance with various embodiments of the invention. For example, the cooling medium may include (but is not limited to) ice, ice substitutes, gel packs, cold packs, etc. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description,” one will understand how the features of the present embodiments provide the advantages described here.
The following detailed description describes the present embodiments with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, reference numbers label elements of the present embodiments. These reference numbers are reproduced below in connection with the discussion of the corresponding drawing features. These figures, and their written descriptions, indicate that certain components of the apparatus are formed integrally, and certain other components are formed as separate pieces. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that components shown and described herein as being formed integrally may in alternative embodiments be formed as separate pieces. Those of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that components shown and described herein as being formed as separate pieces may in alternative embodiments be formed integrally. Further, as used herein the term integral describes a single unitary piece.
Turning now to the drawings, CCLs for regulating and adjusting temperatures in accordance with embodiments of the invention are disclosed. In many embodiments, a CCL may include an insulated lid assembly that may be used in conjunction with other devices (may also be referred to as a “container” or “receptacle”) that may contain a cooling medium such as (but not limited to) ice, reusable cold packs or the like, and/or dry ice. In various embodiments, the combination of the CCL and the container (the combination may also be referred to as a “cold box”) may have unique functionalities to regulate and/or adjust cooling flow into a cooler or other similar type space. In several embodiments, the cold box may utilize electro-mechanical systems transferring energy via forced air from a cooling medium to a larger container space (e.g., cooler). In many embodiments, the CCL may be an insulated assembly configured to preserve the cooling medium (may also be referred to as a “refrigerant media”) and/or temperature profile across the CCL. In addition, the CCL may be configured to protect a user from injury such as (but not limited to) freezer burn due to exposure to the cooling medium. In various embodiments, the CCL may be readily attached to, removed from, and reattached to a variety of containers. In some embodiments, the CCL may include an attachment system that may create two or more separately controlled zones inside a single chamber cooler. In such embodiments, the CCL may include a partitioning type configuration configured to allow an end user may to select separate set point temperatures in the plurality of zones. For example, a first zone may be configured as freezer and a second zone may be configured as a refrigerator. In other embodiments, the first zone may be slightly chilled for snacks and the like to preserve as much cooling energy as possible for an oppositely second zone that may be configured for refrigerator use. In some embodiments, the CCL may also integrate light(s), internal controls, external controls (e.g., smart phone ready functionality and control), and/or memory to record, track, and/or verify temperature histories. CCLs for regulating temperatures in accordance with embodiments of the invention are further discussed below.
The combination of the CCL and container (the combination may also be referred to as a “cold box”) may allow for the end user to control and regulate various temperature conditions, as further described below. A front perspective view of a climate control lid (“CCL”) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 1A. In many embodiments, the CCL 100 may be configured in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit any container 101 capable of holding a cooling medium 103. For example, the CCL 100 may be configured to be used in conjunction with containers 101 such as (but not limited to) a vacuum insulated tumbler that may be readily available in a variety of sizes. In various embodiments, the container 101 may be loaded with dry ice pellets 103 or other cooling medium. In several embodiments, the CCL 100 may have a roughened type surface finish. In some embodiments, the CCL 100 may be constructed using a material having a low thermal conductivity. In some embodiments, the combination of a rough surface and use of a low thermal conductivity material may limit the ability to flash freeze to the CCL's 100 surface (e.g., user's finger or skin).
In some embodiments, the CCL 100 may be configured for divider or insulated dry ice containment systems that may hold standard sized dry ice block(s) in a single block or multiple blocks. For example, a standard sized dry ice block may be 10″×10″×2″ and the container may be large enough to hold one or two blocks for utilization in most mid to larger sized personal coolers. The size of the container 101 may be determined by various factors such as (but not limited to) the unique application, performance characteristics of the cooling medium 103 (e.g., cooling energy density), and/or the available volume when considering the critical space and overall weight to be carried by an end user. In many embodiments, the CCL 100 may be sized for use with one or more of the most readily available containers for use with commonly available dry ice block sizes. Further, other smaller sizes may be available for use with pellets or crushed dry ice for use with soft sided coolers and other smaller coolers that may not accommodate larger dry ice block sized cold boxes. An added benefit of the CCL 100 may be to use in freezers and refrigerators during power outages for many of the same benefits as described herein for use in personal coolers and perishable shipping boxes. In addition, the end user may optionally use the CCL 100 and container in conjunction with other cooling medium placed directly in the cooler. In such embodiments, the cooler performance may be able to double or greatly improve ice retention performance of a high-performance cooler. The CCL 100 may also be able to remove the common issue of vertical temperature gradient developed in enclosed space by providing forced cooling air circulation, as further described below.
An exploded view of the CCL 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 1B. The CCL 100 may include a first component 102, a second component 110, and a third component 116, where the alignment of the first, second and third components 102, 110, 116 may allow for air flow, as further described below. In many embodiments, the CCL 100 may also include a fan 104 for exchanging air between the inside of the container and outside of the container. For example, when the CCL 100 and the container combination are placed inside a cooler, the fan 104 may assist in moving cooler air out of the container and into the inside of the cooler, as further described below. In various embodiments, the CCL 100 may also include an indicator 106 such as (but not limited to) an LED light strip 106 to indicate various information to the user, as further described below. Further, the CCL 100 may include a seal 108 such as (but not limited to) a silicone elastomer seal. In many embodiments, the seal 108 may limit thermal and/or fluid flow between the CCL 100 and the container. In addition, the CCL 100 may also include one or more batteries 112 for powering the CCL's electronic and/or mechanical components. In some embodiments, the one or more batteries 112 may be rechargeable using an electric power source and/or solar. In some embodiments, the one or more batteries 112 may be a single-use battery. In some embodiments, the one or more batteries 112 may be various standards and/or sizes such as (but not limited to) AA batteries (i.e., single cell cylindrical dry battery). In various embodiments, the CCL 100 may also include an insulated battery cover 114 that may keep heat dissipated by the one or more batteries 112 from negatively affecting the overall temperature controls of the CCL 100.
A schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a first component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2A. The first component 102 may include a display 202 that provides information about temperature. In some embodiments, the display 202 may be a back lit LED (light emitting diode) temperature display. In some embodiments, the display 202 may display a temperature reading as measured outside of the CCL and/or the container (may also be referred to as the “external CCL temperature” or “external temperature”). In many embodiments, the outside temperature of the CCL and/or the container may be the internal temperature of a cooler. In some embodiments, the display 202 may display a temperature reading as measured inside of the CCL and/or the container (may also be referred to as the “internal CCL temperature” or “internal temperature”). In some embodiments, the display 202 may display both the external and internal CCL temperatures. In such embodiments, the user may select between displaying the internal and/or the external temperatures. In many embodiments, the internal and/or external CCL temperatures may be measured using various temperature measuring devices such as (but not limited to) thermocouples, temperature gauges, temperature thermometers, etc.
In reference to FIG. 2A, the first component 102 may also include a PIR (passive infrared) sensor 204. In many embodiments, the PIR sensor 204 may be configured for motion detection, automatic lighting and/or activation, etc. In various embodiments, the first component 102 may also include an external sensing temperature sensor 205 such as (but not limited to) a thermocouple 205. In some embodiments, the thermocouple 205, may be positioned on the return air side (i.e. the air intake side) for optimal position to accurately sense external air. The first component 102 may also include a control interface 206. In some embodiments, the control interface 206 may be an HMI (Human-Machine Interface) control. In many embodiments, the control interface 206 may include a temperature down control 208 and a temperature up control 210. In some embodiments, the control interface 206 may also include a function button for input of one or more functions such as (but not limited to) accept, select, mode, return, etc. In some embodiments, a user may control the CCL using an external control device such as (but not limited to) a remote control, a smart-phone, etc. In some embodiments, the CCL may be wirelessly connected to the external control device using various wireless communication protocols such as (but not limited to) Bluetooth, WiFi, Cellular, etc.
A schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of a first component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2B. The first component 102 may also include a first connector 212 that may connect to a shaft of a third component of the CCL, as further described below. In many embodiments, the connection between the first connector 212 and the shaft may be configured such that rotating the first component 102 may energize the CCL 100 to power up from a low power setting and/or power off setting. In many embodiments, rotating the first component 102 may also open internal air ports by aligning a first opening (may also be referred to as “first cavity”) 214 and second opening (may also be referred to as “second cavity”) 216 of the first component with a third opening (may also be referred to as “third cavity”) and a fourth opening (may also be referred to as “fourth cavity”) of the second component 110, respectively, as further described below. In some embodiments, a ⅙ rotation turn of the first component 102 may energize the CCL 100 and/or open the internal air ports. In many embodiments, the opening of the internal air ports (i.e., aligning of the first and second openings with third and fourth openings, respectively) may allow for air flow, as further described below.
A schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a first component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2C. The first component 102 may include one or more side channel air ports 218. In many embodiments, the side channel air ports 218 may allow for air flow from inside of the CCL 100 (and/or to the inside of the container) to outside of the CCL 100, as further described below. In various embodiments, the side channel air ports 218 may allow for air flow from outside of the CCL 100 to the inside of the CCL 100 (and/or to the inside of the container), as further described below.
A schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a first component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2D. Specifically, the cross section A-A of the first component 102 in FIG. 2C is illustrated in FIG. 2D. In reference to FIG. 2D, the first component 102 may be hollow with support structure(s) 220 providing support between the top and bottom of the first component 102. The first component 102 may also include a dividing structure 222 (may also be referred to as a “divider”) that may separate the first component 102 into a first section 224 and a second section 226. In many embodiments, first section 224 may intake air 228 (may also be referred to as “intake air”) via side channel air ports 219 located on the first section 224. In various embodiments, the intake air 228 may be channeled into the first opening 214, as further described below. In several embodiments, second section 226 may expel air 230 (may also be referred to as “cooling exhaust”) via side channel air ports 218 located on the second section 226. In a variety of embodiments, the cooing exhaust 230 may be taken from the interior of the container via the second opening 216, as further described below. In many embodiments, by activating the CCL 100, the CCL 100 may suck intake air 228 and expel cooling exhaust 230 thereby cooling the environment (e.g., the interior of the cooler) about the CCL and the container.
A schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a second component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2E. The second component 110 may include an electronic control board 240 such as (but not limited to) a PCB (printed circuit board). In many embodiments, the PCB 240 may control various functionalities of the CCL 100 including (but not limited to) activation, temperature reading, fan functions, low-power mode, wireless communications, as further described below. In many embodiments, the second component 110 may also include a second connector 242 to allow for power activation on rotation of the shaft of the third component, as further described below. In various embodiments, the second component 110 may also include a third opening 244 and a fourth opening 246. In some embodiments, the area about the fourth opening may also include a first recess 250 for mounting a fan 104 such as (but not limited to) a small axial style fan. In some embodiments, the area about the fourth opening 246 may also include an increased channel opening 248 to accommodate the air moved by the fan 104 (may also be referred to as the “fan intake”).
A schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of a second component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2F. The bottom of the second component 110 may include the third opening 244 and the fourth opening 246. In many embodiments, when the CCL 100 is activated, the third and fourth openings 244, 246 may align with the first and second openings 214, 216, respectively, as described above. In particular, the alignment of the first and second openings 214, 216 with the third and fourth openings 244 and 246, may allow for cooling by controlling air coming into the CCL 100 (and container) and out of the CCL 100 (and container), as described above. In some embodiments, the bottom of the second component 110 may also include one or more battery compartments 254, 256 for housing the batteries 112. For example, the battery compartments 254, 256 may each hold 2 AA batteries. In some embodiments, the battery compartments 254, 256 may include added depth for the battery covers 114 for insulating the batteries 112 for optimal heat transfer. In addition, the bottom of the second component 110 may also include a hole 252 that allows for the shaft of the third component 116 to connect the first connector 212 of the first component 102.
A schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a second component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2G. The second component 110 may include a second recess 260 for receiving an indicator 106 such as (but not limited to) an LED light strip 106 to indicate various information to the user, as further described below. For example, the LED light strip 106 may provide various indications such as (but not limited to) when the CCL 100 is activated, in low-power mode, low on cooling medium, or its battery status, wireless connection status, etc. In some embodiments, the second recess 260 may also include a translucent acrylic such as (but not limited to) a translucent brilliant blue acrylic. In many embodiments, the second component 110 may also include a third recess 262 for receiving seal 108 such as (but not limited to) a silicone elastomer seal. In various embodiments, the seal 108 may assist in the connection between the CCL 100 and the container including in maintaining thermal dynamics, air flow, and/or fluid flow.
A schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a second component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2H. Specifically, the cross section A-A of the second component 110 in FIG. 2G is illustrated in FIG. 2H. In reference to FIG. 2H, the second component 110 may include an outer section 251 constructed using various materials such as (but not limited to) a solid material and/or a thin wall filled with a thermally insulating material. In some embodiments, the second component 110 may include the hole 252, as described above. In addition, the second component 110 may also include the third opening 244 and the fourth opening 246 that allows air flow, as described above. In some embodiments, the third and/or fourth openings 244, 246 may include flap(s) 245 (e.g., a thin silicon flap) that may limit air exchange when the CCL 100 is on and not running. In some embodiments, the flap(s) 245 may open readily with minimal pressure and/or flow loss when the fan 104 is running. For example, the flap 245 may be a thin silicone flap with a center cut allowing for the flap 245 to readily open when the fan is running. Further, the second component 110 may also include the channel 248 and the first recess 250 for optimization of air flow utilizing the fan 104, as described above. In many embodiments, the fan 104 may optimize the air flow including (but not limited to) intake air 228 and cooling exhaust 230, as described herein.
A schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a third component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2I. The third component 116 may include a shaft 270 configured to fit within the hole 252 of the second component, as described above. In many embodiments, the shaft 270 may connect to the first connector 212 of the first component 102 and/or the second connector 242 of the second component 110. In various embodiments, the shaft 270 may connect to the first component 102 via a tolerance snap. In some embodiments, the connection between the shaft 270 and the first and/or second components 102, 110 may utilize grooves to ensure correct fit. In some embodiments, the shaft 270 may be removable for access to the battery chambers 114 and/or the batteries 112. The third component 116 may also include a base 272 attached to the shaft 270. In some embodiments, the third component 116 may also include a guard 273 attached to the base 272. In various embodiments, the guard 273 may be configured to protect against compacting against the cooling medium while allowing for air flow. In some embodiments, the guard 273 may include metal to attract and remove moisture from entering and/or collecting on the fan 104 and/or any other CCL 100 internal components. In some embodiments, the guard 273 may have an integral configuration to direct air flow for optimal performance of the CCL 100.
A schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of a third component of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2J. The base 272 may include a fifth opening (may also be referred to as “fifth cavity”) 274 and a sixth opening (may also be referred to as “sixth cavity”) 276. In various embodiments, the fifth opening 274 may allow for flow of intake air 228 and the sixth opening 276 may allow for flow of cooling exhaust 230. However, in some embodiments, the sixth opening 276 may allow for flow of intake air 228 and the fifth opening 274 may allow for flow of cooling exhaust 230. In some embodiments, the fifth and/or sixth openings 274, 276 may be slanted to direct air flow for optimal performance of the CCL 100. In some embodiments, the third component 116 may also include a flap 277 such as (but not limited to) a thin silicone flap, as described above. For example, the thin silicon flap 277 may allow air pressure to relieve when in a closed position.
A schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 3A. The CCL 300 may have a top diameter 302 equal to 3.95 inches. A schematic diagram illustrating a side view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 3B. The CCL 300 may have a bottom diameter 304 of 3.63 inches. In many embodiments, the top diameter 302 may be larger than the bottom diameter 304 such that the bottom diameter 304 allows for the CCL 300 to insert into a container while the top diameter 302 allows the CCL 300 to reside outside of the container. In various embodiments, the top and bottom diameters 302, 304 may be selected to fit a particular sized container. For example, top and bottom diameters 302, 304 may be selected based on the container's opening (e.g., mouth), depth, size of the intended cooling medium, etc.
In addition, a CCL may have various height configurations. In many embodiments, the height of the CCL may be designed with consideration to the space requirements of the internal components (e.g., batteries, PCB, fan, etc.). As illustrated in FIG. 3B, the CCL 300 may have a height of 2.13 inches. In many embodiments, a portion of the height 306 of the CCL 300 may be inserted into the container. By adjusting the shape and size of the CCL 300, a CCL may be sized and shaped to fit any container. Further, as described above, the CCL 300 may be secured with the container using a securing mechanism such as (but not limited to) twisting with threads, snap fastening, etc. Further, the CCL 300 may utilize one or more seals for securing the CCL 300 to a container, as described above.
A schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 3C. Specifically, the cross section A-A of the CCL 300 in FIG. 3A is illustrated in FIG. 3C. In reference to FIG. 3C, the CCL 300 may include a first component 310, a second component 312, and a third component 314. In many embodiments, the diameter 302 of the CCL 300 may equal to the diameter of the first component. In various embodiments, the first component 310 and the second component 312 may connect such that the connection between the first component 310 and the second component 312 includes an overlapped edge 316 to protect from moisture ingress. For example, the connection between the first component 310 and the second component 312 may occur where the first and second components have equal diameters (and/or any other dimensions). In some embodiments, the connection between the first and second components may have dimensions that mirror each other such that there is an overlapped edge 316 to protect from moisture ingress into the CCL 300.
A schematic diagram illustrating another cross-sectional view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 3D. Specifically, the cross section B-B of the CCL 300 in FIG. 3A is illustrated in FIG. 3D. In reference to FIG. 3D, the CCL 300 may include the first component 310, the second component 312, and the third component 314. In some embodiments, the first component 310 may include a hollow space 311 that may include a surface 313. In some embodiments, the surface 313 may be sloped from a center portion out to a perimeter portion such that the sloped surface 313 may limit water and/or condensation from ingress into the CCL's 300 internal components. The second component 312 may include a stepped edge 322 configured to abut the container. For example, when the CCL 300 is attached to the container, the CCL 300 may insert into an opening of the container such that a bottom portion 318 of the second component 312 is inserted into the container and the stepped edge 322 stops the CCL 300 to keep the top portion 320 of the second component 312 outside of the container. In many embodiments, the second component 312 may also include a seal 324 for sealing the connection between the CCL 300 and the container, as further described above.
Although specific CCLs having first, second, and third components are discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1-3D, any of a variety of CCLs including a variety of components, sensors, and/or configurations as appropriate to the requirements of a specific application can be utilized in accordance with embodiments of the invention. For example, the various components may be alternatively arranged. In some embodiments, the electronic hardware (e.g., PCB), batteries, etc. may be part of the first component 102. In some embodiments, the first component 102 may be larger to accommodate components and the second component 110 may be smaller. Further, the intake and/or exhaust system and the LED light components may swap positions. One of ordinary skill would appreciate that the various components may be alternatively arranged, sized, and/or positioned in consideration of manufacturing and/or assembly optimization. Likewise, one of ordinary skill would appreciate that the various components may be alternatively arranged, sized, and/or positioned in consideration of performance optimization such as (but not limited to) moving electronics further away from the cooling exhaust air flow, etc. Additional CCLs in accordance with embodiments of the invention are discussed further below.
As described here, when CCLs and a container combination may be placed inside a cooler, the CCL may assist in moving cooler air out of the container and into the inside of the cooler via the CCL. FIG. 4A is a top perspective view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The CCL 400 may be configured to fit most 30-32 ounce tumblers. The CCL 400 may include a display 402 that provides information about temperature, as described above. In many embodiments, the internal and/or external CCL temperatures may be measured using various temperature measuring devices, as described above. In various embodiments, the CCL 400 may also include a battery cover 404 that covers one or more batteries. The battery cover 404 may provide a liquid tight chamber for one or more batteries, as further described below. In several embodiments, the CCL 400 may also include a touch guard 406 that allows for air flow in and out of the CCL while protecting a user from direct exposure to cooling exhaust expelled by the CCL 400. In some embodiments, the touch guard 406 may be made using a variety of materials including (but not limited to) plastic. In some embodiments, the touch guard 406 may also protect the CCL 400 by shielding internal components of the CCL 400 from external conditions. In many embodiments, the touch guard 406 may include one or more air ports 408 that allows for intake of air and expelling of cooling exhaust, as described further below. In addition, the CCL 400 may also include a control interface 410, as described above. For example, the control interface 410 may include a power on/off control 412, a temperature down control 414, and a temperature up control 416. In some embodiments, a user may control the CCL 400 using an external control device, as further described above.
A bottom perspective view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 4B. The CCL 400 may include a stepped edge 420 such that when the CCL 400 is attached to a container, the CCL 400 may insert into an opening of the container where the stepped edge 420 keeps a portion of the CCL 400 outside of the container. In many embodiments, the CCL 400 may also include a seal 422 for sealing the connection between the CCL 400 and the container, as further described above. Further, the CCL 400 may include a vent 424 that allows for the flow of air intake and cooling exhaust, as described further below. In many embodiments, the vent 424 may be perforated to keep items from interfering with the internal components of the CCL 400.
An exploded view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 4C. The CCL 400 may include the battery cover 404 and touch guard 406, as described above. Further, the CCL 400 may include a plunger 407 that allows for exchanging air between the inside of the container and air outside of the container via the CCL 400. In many embodiments, the plunger 407 may be a solenoid controlled, insulated plunger. In some embodiments, the plunger 407 may be mechanically fastened to the CCL 400. In some embodiments, the plunger 407 may be an angled plunger that provides positive sealing. In other embodiments, the plunger 407 may utilize various motions such as (but not limited to) a sliding, rotating, louvering, valving, etc. types of motions.
In reference to FIG. 4C, the CCL 400 may also include an indicator 409 such as (but not limited to) an LED light strip (e.g., a crystal blue LED light ring) to indicate various information to the user, as further described above. Further, the CCL 400 may include a seal 411 such as (but not limited to) a silicone elastomer seal having one or more seal edges. In many embodiments, the seal 411 may limit thermal and/or fluid flow between the CCL 400 and the container. In addition, the CCL 400 may also include one or more batteries 413 for powering the CCL's electronic and/or mechanical components, as further described above. In some embodiments, the one or more batteries 413 may be various standards and/or sizes such as (but not limited to) AA batteries (i.e., single cell cylindrical dry battery). In various embodiments, the CCL 400 may also include one or more temperature measuring devices 415 (may also be referred to as “temperature sensor”) such as (but not limited to) thermocouples, temperature gauges, temperature thermometers, etc.
A cross-sectional view of a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 4D. When activated, the plunger 407 may motion 419 based on a setpoint temperature control set by the user and/or set as a default temperature. For example, when the CCL 400 measures an external temperature above the setpoint temperature, the plunger 407 may motion 419 up thereby activing the flow 421 of cool air from within the container out to the cooler (and/or the flow 426 of external air into the container). However, when the CCL 400 measures the external temperature to be below the setpoint temperature, the plunger 407 may motion down 419 thereby stopping the flow 421 of cool air from within the container out to the cooler (and/or the flow 426 of external air into the container). In some embodiments, when the CCL 400 measures an external temperature equal to the setpoint temperature, the plunger 407 may either motion 419 up or down depending on the configuration of the CCL 400. In many embodiments, the CCL 400 may also include a space 428 that may be void and filled with a closed cell foam. In other embodiments, the space 428 may be utilized to house an electronic control board such as (but not limited to) a PCB, as further described above. Although specific CCLs are discussed above with respect to FIGS. 4A-D, any of a variety of CCLs including a variety of components, sensors, and/or configurations as appropriate to the requirements of a specific application can be utilized in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a CCL in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The CCL 500 may comprise a processing module 510 that is operatively connected to a temperature sensor 502, fan 504, display 506, control(s) 508, and communication module 512. In some embodiments, the processing module 510 may also be operatively connected to a PIR sensor 510. The processing module 514 may comprise a processor 516, volatile memory 518, and non-volatile memory 520 that includes a CCL application 522. In many embodiments, the CCL application 522 may configure the processor 516 to receive input data 524 including (but not limited to) a temperature up input 525 and/or temperature down input 527. For example, the user may provide a temperature up input 525 and/or a temperature down input 527 using the control(s) 508, as further described above. In some embodiments, the input data 524 may be an on/off input. In such embodiments, the CCL application 522 may configure the processor 516 to activate and/or turn on the CCL 500 from a low-power and/or powered off state.
In reference to FIG. 5, the CCL application 522 may configure the processor 516 to select a setpoint data 526 (may also be referred to as “setpoint temperature”) using data such as (but not limited to) the input data 524. In many embodiments, the setpoint temperature 526 may indicate the temperature that the user has selected for the internal temperature of the cooler (i.e., the external temperature of the CCL and/or container). In some embodiments, the setpoint temperature 526 may be a predetermined temperature. For example, in some embodiments, the predetermined temperature may be set for a particular usage such as (but not limited to) refrigeration and/or freezing. In some embodiments, the activation of the CCL 500 by the user may cause the CCL application 520 configure the processor 516 to select the setpoint temperature 526. In some embodiments, the user may provide a particular usage setting as the input data 524 and the CCL application 520 may configure the processor 516 to select the setpoint temperature 526 based on the provided particular usage setting.
In further reference to FIG. 5, the CCL application 520 may configure the processor 516 to measure temperature data 528 (may also be referred to as “measure temperature”) including (but not limited to) an external temperature 529 and/or an internal temperature 531. For example, the CCL application 522 may configure the processor 516 to measure the external temperature 529 and/or the internal temperature 531 using the temperature sensor(s) 502. In many embodiments, the CCL application 522 may configure the processor 516 to compare the measured temperature 528 and the setpoint temperature 526. In various embodiments, when the measured temperature 528 is greater than the setpoint temperature 526, the CCL application 522 may configure the processor 516 to turn on (or keep on) the fan 504 to allow for air flow (e.g., intake of air and expel of cooling exhaust) by the CCL 500, as further described above. In several embodiments, when the measured temperature 528 is less than the setpoint temperature 526, the CCL application 520 may configure the processor 516 to turn off (or keep off) the fan 504 to prevent air flow (e.g., intake of air and expel of cooling exhaust) by the CCL 500, as further described above. In some embodiments, when the measured temperature 528 is equal to the setpoint temperature 526, the CCL application 520 may configure the processor 516 to either turn on or turn off the fan 504. In some embodiments, the user may directly turn on or off the fan by activating the CCL 500. For example, in some embodiments, the user may turn on or turn off the fan by a variety of inputs such as (but not limited to) rotating a first compartment of a CCL, pressing an on/off button, providing inputs via an external wireless device, etc. In some embodiments, the CCL application 522 may configure the processor 516 to collect PIR data 530 using the PIR sensor 510. For example, the PIR sensor 510 may detect motion, lighting conditions, etc. In some embodiments, the CCL application 522 may configure the processor 516 to utilize the PIR data 530 in CCL functions such as (but not limited to) activating and/or deactivating the CCL 500 (including the fan 504), etc.
In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5, the various components including (but not limited to) the processing module 514, the communication module 512 are represented by separate boxes. The graphical representations depicted in FIG. 5 are, however, merely examples, and are not intended to indicate that any of the various components of the CCL 500 are necessarily physically separate from one another, although in some embodiments they might be. In other embodiments, however, the structure and/or functionality of any or all of the components of CCL 500 may be combined. In addition, in some embodiments the communication module 512 may include its own processor, volatile memory, and/or non-volatile memory. In addition, in some embodiments the communication module 512 may include its own processor, volatile memory, and/or non-volatile memory. In addition, a communication module, such as the communication module 512 may comprise (but is not limited to) one or more transceivers and/or wireless antennas (not shown) configured to transmit and receive wireless signals such as (but not limited to) satellite, radio frequency (RF), Bluetooth or WIFI. In other embodiments, the communication module 512 may comprise (but is not limited to) one or more transceivers configured to transmit and receive wired signals.
In further reference to FIG. 5, in various embodiments, the communication module 512 may be configured to transmit and/or receive data detected by the various sensors within CCLs, as described above. In many embodiments, the communication module 512 may be configured to control the various sensors within the CCL using inputs from one or more users. For example, data such as (but not limited to) temperature data 528, setpoint data 526, and/or PIR data 530 may be transmitted to a user's client device via satellite, radio frequency, Bluetooth and/or WIFI. Further, control of various parameters such as (but not limited to) activation of the CCL 500, temperature sensor 502, and PIR sensor 510, and receiving input data 524 may be accomplished by remote control using one or more client devices.
Although specific CCLs are discussed above with respect to FIG. 5, any of a variety of CCLs including a variety of components, sensors, and/or configurations as appropriate to the requirements of a specific application can be utilized in accordance with embodiments of the invention. While the above description contains many specific embodiments of the invention, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as an example of one embodiment thereof. It is therefore to be understood that the present invention may be practiced otherwise than specifically described, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Thus, embodiments of the present invention should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.
Patent Application
20220205707
