Insulating Container

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 18/780,213, filed on Jul. 22, 2024, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/605,199, filed on Dec. 1, 2023, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

The present disclosure relates to non-rigid and rigid portable containers and methods of manufacturing and use therefore, including a container with an insulating lid, which is also referred to as a cooler.

Coolers can be useful to transport, physically protect, and thermally insulate various items in solid and liquid form. For example, beverage containers, including aluminum cans or glass bottles for beer, seltzers, non-alcoholic beverages and the like, are often stored within a rigid or non-rigid portable cooler in large quantities and transported to a particular location for consumption. Fluid beverages are also often enjoyed at cold temperatures and, thus, it is desired for coolers to thermally insulate the fluid beverages during transport and/or during storage on-site. Further, coolers with waterproof closures are desired to prevent liquid from entering the cooler and coming into contact with contents sored therein. In particular, it is desired that coolers include multiple layers of waterproof protection to ensure that liquid does not enter the cooler while the cooler is closed.

Various aspects are described in connection with illustrative implementation of a container disclosed herein.

In some aspects, a container includes a base that includes an outer base layer, an inner base layer, and a base insulation layer, the inner base layer defining an interior volume of the container. The container further includes a moveable lid coupled to the base at a first end thereof, the moveable lid including an outer lid layer, a first insulation layer, a second insulation layer, and an inner lid layer covering the first insulation layer and the second insulation layer. A seat is formed by the inner base layer at the first end of the base, and the first insulation layer and the inner lid layer define a rim that contacts the seat when the moveable lid is in a closed position. The second insulation layer and the inner lid layer define a plug that forms an interference fit with the inner base layer to seal the interior volume when the moveable lid is in the closed position.

In some embodiments, the container further includes a waterproof closure extending around a periphery of the first end of the base. In some embodiments, the outer base layer and the inner base layer are coupled to a first half of the waterproof closure, and the outer lid layer and the inner lid layer are coupled to a second half of the waterproof closure. In some embodiments, the outer base layer is made of polyester fabric. In some embodiments, the inner base layer extends atop the base insulation layer to define the seat, and the seat defines a planar surface. In some embodiments, the plug extends past the seat to abut the interior volume when the moveable lid is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the plug defines a first plug surface that abuts the interior volume when the moveable lid is in the closed position, and the plug further defines a second plug surface the periphery thereof. In some embodiments, the second plug surface is configured to contact sides of the inner base layer when the moveable lid is in the closed position.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a container includes a base that includes an outer base layer, an inner base layer, and a base insulation layer. The container further includes a moveable lid that is coupled to the base at a first end thereof, the moveable lid including a cover, a plug, and an inner lid layer covering the cover and the plug. A y-axis extends in a direction that is parallel to the outer base layer. The plug protrudes from the cover, and the cover defines a first height measured along the y-axis that is greater than a second height of the plug measured along the y-axis.

In some embodiments, the second height of the plug is between about 25% and about 75% of the first height of the cover. In some embodiments, the cover defines a first depth measured perpendicular to the y-axis that is greater than a second depth of the plug measured perpendicular to the y-axis. In some embodiments, the second depth of the plug is between about 50% and 100% of the first depth of the cover. In some embodiments, the container further comprises one or more straps coupled to one or more patches that are coupled to the outer base layer. In some embodiments, the one or more patches are covered by flaps formed in the outer base layer. In some embodiments, the plug forms an interference fit with the inner base layer to seal an interior volume of the container defined by the inner base layer when the moveable lid is in the closed position.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of manufacturing a container includes providing a shell, a liner, a closure, and one or more insulation layers. The method further includes forming a base and a lid with the shell to define a cavity, positioning the one or more insulation layers within the cavity, and positioning the liner within the cavity to cover the one or more insulation layers. The method further includes coupling the shell and the liner to a first half of the closure at a first end of the base, coupling a first strip of material to a second half of the closure and a top wall of the lid along a first outer periphery thereof, and coupling the liner to the second half of the closure.

In some embodiments, the shell includes an outer base layer and an outer lid layer, and the liner includes an inner base layer and an inner lid layer. In some embodiments, the inner lid layer is coupled to an underside of the lid to cover a first insulation layer and a second insulation layer. In some embodiments, positioning the liner within the cavity includes forming a seat with the liner atop a base insulation layer at the first end of the base. In some embodiments, the method further includes molding at least one of the top wall and a bottom wall of the container to include a logo thereon.

Various alternative implementations of the foregoing aspects are disclosed. The foregoing various aspects may be combined in any manner without limitation. The foregoing and other aspects and advantages of the disclosure will appear from the following description. In the description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which there is shown by way of illustration a preferred configuration of the disclosure. Such configuration does not necessarily represent the full scope of the disclosure, however, and reference is made therefore to the claims herein for interpreting the scope of the disclosure.

Before the embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. Aspects of the disclosure are capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including” and “comprising” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof.

The features, aspects and advantages are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate but not to limit the present disclosure. While the systems disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms, several specific embodiments are discussed herein with the understanding that the embodiments described in the present disclosure are to be considered only exemplifications of the principles described herein, and the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments illustrated. Throughout the disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximate” mean plus or minus 5% of the number or value that each term precedes. In the drawings, like reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the drawings. Also, while the terms “front side,” “back side,” “top,” “base,” “bottom,” “side,” “forward,” and “rearward” and the like may be used in this specification to describe various example features and elements, these terms are used herein as a matter of convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown in the figures and/or the orientations in typical use. Unless otherwise stated, nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a specific three dimensional or spatial orientation of structures in order to fall within the scope of the claims.

In the description that follows, reference is made to one or more container structures. It is contemplated that any of the disclosed structures may be constructed from any polymer, composite, plastic, injection molded plastic, and/or metal/alloy material, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally, it is contemplated that any manufacturing methodology may be utilized, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, one or more of welding, e.g., high frequency, ultrasonic welding, or laser welding of fabric, or metal/alloy welding, gluing, stitching, molding, injection molding, blow molding, stamping, deep-drawing, casting, die-casting, rotational molding, or additive manufacturing processes may be used, as well as various finishing processes, including drilling, deburring, grinding, polishing, sanding, or etching processes, among many others, may be utilized to construct the various container structures, or portions thereof, described throughout the disclosure.

illustrate various aspects of an implementation of a container, which may be configured as an insulating container, a cooler, or an insulative enclosure, according to aspects of the present disclosure. In some applications, the containeris configured for transport, protection, and thermal insulation of one or more beverage containers, food items, and/or a free fluid (not shown). It should be understood, however, that the teachings herein are not limited to any particular beverage container, and are applicable to enclosures for containers of other products, including solids and liquids of various forms, temperatures, and compositions according to aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, the containercomprises an outer portion or shelland an inner portion or liner(see) that is configured to fit within a cavity(see) defined by the shell. The shellincludes a basedefining a front wall, a rear wall, a left wall, and a right wall, each of which extend upwardly from a bottom wallto form a perimeter of the base.

In some aspects, each of the front, rear, left, right and bottom walls,,,,of the baseare substantially planar walls that meet one another at curved corners of the base. The baseof the container is configured as a base assembly that includes an outer base layerdefined by the shell, an inner base layerdefined by the liner(see), and a base insulation layer, which are best shown and described in relation to. Referring again to, the basehas a top or first endand a bottom or second endthat is opposite the first end. In some aspects, the containerdefines a y-axisthat extends between the first endand the second end, i.e., in a direction that is parallel to the outer base layer, a z-axisthat extends between the front walland the rear wallin a direction that is perpendicular to the y-axis, and an x-axisthat extends between the left walland the right wallin a direction that is perpendicular to the y-axisand the z-axis. It is contemplated that the y-axis, the z-axis, and the x-axisdefine corresponding planes of the container. For example, a YZ plane (not shown) extends along the y-axisand the z-axis, a YX plane (not shown) extends along the y-axisand the x-axis, and a ZX plane (not shown) extends along the z-axisand the x-axis.

Referring specifically to, there is a first closureat the first endof the basethat extends along the periphery of the top of the front, left, and right walls,,of the base, and at least partially along the periphery of the top of the rear wallof the base. In particular, the first closureis integral with the structure of the baseand serves as a connection point between the baseand a moveable lid. For example, the first closuremay be a zipper, rail-type closures, hook and loop fasteners, tabs, interference fitting closures, interlocking closures, magnetic closures, and/or any other suitable type of fastener, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the first closureis a waterproof closure that is configured to prevent liquid from entering the cavity(see) when the lidis arranged in a closed position and the first closureis sealed. For example, the first closuremay be watertight up to about 5 pounds per square inch (psi) of atmospheric pressure, or up to about 9 psi of atmospheric pressure, or up to about 15 psi of atmospheric pressure, or at atmospheric pressures greater than about 1 psi.

In some aspects, the lidis configured as a lid assembly and includes a front walla rear wall, a left wall, and a right wall, each of which extend downwardly from a top wall. In some aspects, each of the front, rear, left, right and top walls,,,,of the lidare substantially planar walls that meet one another at curved corners. The lidis movably coupled to the base, such that when the lidis in a closed position, i.e., when the lidis secured to the basevia the first closure, each of the walls,,,of the baseare flush with the corresponding walls,,,of the lid, respectively. Put another way, when the lidis in a closed position as illustrated in, the front wallof the baseand the front wallof the lidat least partially define a shared plane, the rear wallof the baseand the rear wallof the lidat least partially define a shared plane, the left wallof the baseand the left wallof the lidat least partially define a shared plane, and the right wallof the baseand the right wallof the lidat least partially define a shared plane. In some embodiments, the walls,,,of the lidare not flush with the corresponding walls,,,of the base. For example, the lidcan define a larger perimeter than the base, and/or the lidcan define a tapered profile in a vertical direction, e.g., along the y-axis. In some examples, the containerfurther includes a front pocket, straps, side handles, and/or attachment rings, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

Referring specifically to, front and side elevational views, respectively, are illustrated of the container. It is contemplated that aspects relating to the right wallof the baseas described herein are also applicable to the left wallof the base. Various dimensions of the containerare shown, including an external heightof the container, an external depthof the container, and an external heightof the container. Each of the external height, depth, and width,,of the containerare measured along the y-axis, the z-axis, and the x-axisrespectively. As such, it will be appreciated that a height may be measured in a direction that is parallel with respect to the y-axis, a depth may be measured in a direction that is parallel with respect to the z-axis, and a width may be measured in a direction that is parallel with respect to the x-axis. In the illustrated embodiment, the external heightis illustrated as a maximum height of the containerin a closed position, the external depthis illustrated as a maximum depth of the containerin a closed position, and the external widthis illustrated as a maximum width of the containerin a closed position.

In some aspects, the external heightof the containermay be between about 50% and about 150% of the external width, or between about 50% and about 100% of the external width, or between about 75% and about 100% of the external width, or between about 80% and about 90% of the external width, or about 85% of the external widthof the container. In some aspects, the external depthof the containermay be between about 50% and about 150% of the external height, or between about 50% and about 100% of the external height, or between about 75% and about 100% of the external height, or between about 75% and about 85% of the external height, or, about 80% of the external heightof the container.

Still referring to, the containerfurther includes a pocket, e.g., a front pocket, on the front wallof the base. It is contemplated that the pocketmay be formed in the shellso as to be flush with front wallof the base, or the pocketcan be formed as an external pocket on the front wall. In some aspects, the containerincludes additional pockets (not shown) located on one or more of the walls,,,of the base. In the illustrated non-limiting example illustrated in, the pocketis a substantially rectangular, external pocket that protrudes outward from the front wallof the base, e.g., in a direction along the z-axis(see).

In some aspects, the pocketis integrally formed with the front wallof the base, or the pocketis coupled to the front wallof the basevia stitching, glue, welding, and/or another suitable fastening technique. The pocketis configured to hold a variety of objects, such as, e.g., cell phones, wallets, small purses, car keys, a beverage container, a beverage enclosure that contains a beverage container, and/or other objects sized and shaped accordingly. In addition, the pockethas a second closureextending at least partially therealong, e.g., in a direction that is parallel to the z-axis, and the second closureis substantially similar to the first closure. For example, the second closuremay be a zipper, waterproof closure, rail-type closures, hook and loop fasteners, tabs, interference fitting closures, interlocking closures, magnetic closures, and/or any other suitable type of fastener, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Various dimensions of the pocketare shown in, including a heightof the pocketmeasured along the y-axis, a depthof the pocketmeasured along the z-axis, and a widthof the pocketmeasured along the x-axis. In some aspects, the heightof the pocketmay be between about 25% and about 75% of the external height, or between about 50% and about 70% of the external height, or between about 50% and about 60% of the external height, or about 57% of the external heightof the container. In some aspects, the depthof the pocketmay be between about 5% and about 50% of the external depth, or between about 5% and about 25% of the external depth, or between about 5% and about 15% of the external depth, or about 10% of the external depthof the container. In some aspects, the widthof the pocketmay be between about 50% and about 100% of the external width, or between about 60% and about 80% of the external width, or between about 70% and about 80% of the external width, or about 77% of the external widthof the container.

Referring specifically to, and as discussed above, the containerfurther includes straps, e.g., straps for carrying the container. For example, the containerincludes a front or first strapA coupled to the front wallof the containerand a rear or second strapB coupled to the rear wall(see) of the container. It is contemplated that the strapsmay be formed of webbing, such as, e.g., nylon webbing, or other materials that may include, among other, polypropylene, neoprene, polyester, Dyneema, Kevlar, cotton fabric, leather, plastics, rubber, or rope. In some aspects, each straphas a thickness of between about 0.50 millimeters and about 2.0 millimeters, or between about 1.0 millimeters and about 1.5 millimeters, or about 1.3 mm. Whileillustrate the containeras including both the first strapA and the second strapB, it is contemplated that fewer or additional straps may be coupled to the containers. In some aspects, the strapsare configured to support less than about 100 pounds (45.4 kilograms), or less than about 150 pounds (68.0 kilograms), or less than about 200 pounds (90.7 kilograms), or less than about 250 pounds (113.4 kilograms).

Referring again to the non-limiting example illustrated in, the strapsare similarly sized and configured to be coupled at midpoints thereof by a handle flap. In some aspects, the handle flapis carried by the front strapA or the rear strapB, and the handle flapfurther comprises a fastener for coupling opposing ends of the handle flapto each other. For example, the handle flapis carried by the second strapB and is configured to have a pair of fasteners (not shown) comprising male portions (not shown) located on a first end of a first surface and female portions (not shown) located on a second end of the first surface, with the first end being opposite the second end. As such, when the midpoints of the first strapA and the second strapB are proximate each other (see), the second end of the handle flapmay be wrapped around a portion of the first strapA so that the male and female portions of the pair of fasteners (not shown) are coupled together, thereby securing the first and second strapsA,B together.

In some examples, the strapsare coupled to the base, e.g., the front walland the rear wall(see), via patches (not shown) that are attached to or formed integrally with the shell. Put another way, the strapsare attached, e.g., adhered, stitched, welded, and/or otherwise fastened, to patches (not shown) which in turn are coupled to the base. In some aspects, the patches (not shown) are coupled to the exterior of the shellsuch that the patches (not shown) are visible, or the patches (not shown) are covered by, i.e., disposed beneath, the shell. For example, the patches (not shown) are covered by flapsformed in the shellso as to cover the attachment points of the strapsto the base.

Referring now to, the containerfurther includes side handlesand attachment rings, e.g., a component having an aperture extending therethrough, that are coupled to the sides, e.g., the left wall(see) and the right wallof the container. Specifically, the side handlesand the attachment ringsare located approximately centrally between the front wall(see) and the rear wall(see). Further, the side handlesand the attachment ringsare located closer to the lidthan the bottom wall(see), although it will be understood that the side handlesand the attachment ringscan be coupled to the containerat any suitable position on the base.

In some aspects, the side handlesare coupled to the containervia patches (not shown) that are attached to or formed integrally with the shell. Put another way, the side handlesare attached, e.g., adhered, stitched, welded, and/or otherwise fastened, to patches (not shown) which in turn are coupled to the base. For example, both ends of one side handleare attached to one or more patches (not shown) that are coupled to the base. In some aspects, the patches (not shown) are coupled to the exterior of the shellsuch that the patches (not shown) are visible, or the patches (not shown) are covered by, i.e., disposed beneath, the shell. For example, the patches (not shown) may be covered by flapsformed in the shellso as to cover the attachment points of the strapsto the base. Further, it is contemplated that the side handlesmay be formed of webbing, such as, e.g., nylon webbing, or other materials that may include, among other, polypropylene, neoprene, polyester, Dyneema, Kevlar, cotton fabric, leather, plastics, rubber, or rope.

In some aspects, the attachment ringsare configured to receive opposing ends of a shoulder strap (not shown). In particular, each attachment ringis configured to receive a clasp located at each opposing end of the shoulder strap (not shown) such that the clasp can be removably hooked to each attachment ringto selectively attach and remove the shoulder strap (not shown) from the containeras desired. In some examples, the attachment ringsare coupled to loopsof fabric which in turn are coupled to the shell. For example, a single loopextends through an aperture in a single attachment ringso as to couple the attachment ringto the right wallof the base. Correspondingly, the loopsare coupled, e.g., stitched, adhered, welded, to patches (not shown) that are covered by the shelland/or coupled to an interior (not shown) of the shell. In some examples, one side handleand one loopare connected to a single patch (not shown) on each side wall,of the container, although it is contemplated that multiple side handles, loops, and/or attachment ringscan be coupled to the baseat a variety of different locations.

It is contemplated that the attachment ringsmay be constructed from one or more polymers, metals, ceramics, glasses, alloys, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the attachment ringsmay be constructed from polypropylene, neoprene, polyester, Dyneema, Kevalar, cotton fabric, leather, plastics, rubber, and/or rope. Further, the attachment ringseach define a substantially D-shape, e.g., D-rings, but the attachment ringsmay include other shapes such as, for example, round, square, rectangular, triangular, or multiple rings with multiple attachment points and apertures. Moreover, it is contemplated that the loopsmay be formed of webbing, such as, e.g., nylon webbing, or other materials that may include, among other, polypropylene, neoprene, polyester, Dyneema, Kevlar, cotton fabric, leather, plastics, rubber, or rope.

Referring now to, the rear wallof the baseand the rear wallof the liddefine a hingeof the container. Specifically, the hingecouples the baseto the lidand defines a hinge axisthat extends between an interface of the baseand the lidin a direction that is parallel with the x-axis. In this way, the lidcan be rotated about the hinge axiswhen, e.g., the lidis opened or closed. In some aspects, the hingeis formed by the shelland the inner liner(see), meaning that the hingeserves as a connection point between the shelland the liner(see). In some examples, the hingeis a living hinge, and the hingeallows the lidto be actuated between an open position (see) and a closed position as illustrated in, and as will be discussed below in greater detail.

In some examples, the shellis formed as an integral one-piece structure, or the shellcan be formed as a multiple component assembly. In the non-limiting example illustrated in, the shellis an integral one-piece component with a seamthat extends vertically, e.g., in a direction that is parallel with the y-axis, along the rear walls,, of the baseand the lid, respectively. In some aspects, the seamis formed by joining sides of the one-piece shelltogether using a suitable fastening technique, e.g., adhering, stitching, and/or welding, to secure the shellaround the container. Correspondingly, it is contemplated that the shellmay be constructed from neoprene, polyester, cotton fabric, mesh fabric, leather, plastics, rubber, nylon, and/or molded EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate). In some examples, the shellis made of or constructed from a synthetic fabric, e.g., polyester and/or nylon fabric. Further, the shell may include an outer and/or double-sided coating using, e.g., fabric, nylon, felt, thermoplastic polyurethane, etc. In some aspects, the container, e.g., the shelland the liner, can withstand about 25 pounds (111.2 Newtons) or less of puncture force, or about 50 pounds (222.4 Newtons) or less of puncture force, or about 75 pounds (333.6 Newtons) or less of puncture force, or about 100 pounds (444.8 Newtons) or less of puncture force, or about 125 pounds (556.0 Newtons) or less of puncture force, e.g., puncture force provided during a benchtop puncture test.

Still referring to the non-limiting example illustrated in, additional dimensions of the containerare shown, including a heightof the baseand a heightof the lid. Each of the base and lid heights,are measured along the y-axis. In some aspects, the external heightis defined by the sum of the heights,of the baseand the lid. In some aspects, the heightof the lidmay be between about 1% and about 25% of the heightof the base, or between about 5% and about 15% of the heightof the base, or between about 10% and about 15% of the heightof the base, or about 13% of the heightof the base.

Referring now to, the top wallof the lidis substantially rectangular-shaped or square-shaped, although it is contemplated that the top wallcan be shaped differently than shown, e.g., circular, ovular, triangular, etc. In some examples, the lidincludes an upper or first stripof material, an upper or first ridge, and a tabthat are each coupled to the top wallof the lid. Specifically, the first stripextends around the outer periphery of the lidand is configured to protect and reinforce the lid. Put another way, the first stripincreases the rigidity of the lid. In some examples, the first stripis configured as a corner support and/or joint, meaning that the first stripwraps over the peripheral edge of the top wallso as to couple the top wallwith each of the walls,,,of the lid.

In other examples, the first stripdefines each of the walls,,,of the lid, and the first stripforms an upper or first jointA (see) between top walland the first closure(see), as is best shown and described in relation to. In some aspects, the first stripis an integral one-piece structure, and the seamformed along the rear wallof the base(see) extends into the first strip, meaning that sides of the first stripare also joined together along the seam(see) via, e.g., adhering, stitching, and/or welding. It is contemplated that similar fastening techniques may be used to couple the first stripto the top wall. In some aspects, the first stripis formed of a similar material as the shell, e.g., polyester fabric. In other examples, the first stripis constructed of a more rigid material than the material of the shell.

Still referring to, the first ridgealso extends around the top wallof the lid. In particular, the first ridgeis inset from the peripheral edge of the top wall, i.e., inset from the first strip. In some aspects, the first ridgedefines a curved or semi-circular profile as best shown and described in relation to, and the first ridgeextends upwardly, i.e., along the y-axis(see), from the top wall. With continued reference to, the first ridgeis formed integrally with the top wallof the lid. For example, the first ridgecan be formed during manufacture of the lidusing, e.g., injection molding, blow molding, stamping, die-casting, etc. In some aspects, a logois also formed in the top wallduring the manufacture thereof. For example, the logocan be compression molded, injection molded, printed, stamped, cast, pressed, and/or embossed in the top wallof the lid.

In some examples, the tabis coupled to the top wallof the lid. Specifically, the tabis inset from the front wallof the lidand extends outward and upward therefrom, e.g., in a direction towards the front walland away from the top wallof the lid. In some aspects, the tabis positioned on the top wallinward relative to the first ridge, and the tabpartially extends over the first ridge. Further, one end of the tabis coupled to the lidvia, e.g., adhering, stitching, and/or welding. In some aspects, the tabis a rectangular tab, although it is contemplated that a variety of different shapes could be used for the tab, e.g., trapezoidal, ovular, triangular, etc. To that end, the tabis sized so a user can easily grasp the tab to selectively open and close the lid, i.e., to actuate the lidabout the hinge axis. Using the tabis particularly advantageous when the lidor a portion thereof extends partially into the cavity(see) when the lidis in the closed position, as will be discussed below in greater detail. In some aspects, the tabis constructed of neoprene, polyester, cotton fabric, mesh fabric, leather, plastics, rubber, nylon, metal, and/or molded EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate). In one example, the tabis constructed of a polyester sheet that is coupled at one end to the top wallof the lidand then folded over onto itself before being further fastened to the top wall.

Referring now to, a bottom plan view is illustrated of the container. In some aspects, the bottom wallof the baseis substantially rectangular-shaped or square-shaped, although it is contemplated that the bottom wallcan be shaped differently than shown. In some aspects, the baseincludes a lower or second stripof material and a lower or second ridgethat are coupled to the bottom wallof the base. For example, the second stripmay mirror the first strip(see), meaning that the second stripextends around the outer periphery of the bottom walland is configured to protect and reinforce the base. In some aspects, the second stripis configured as a corner support and/or forms a lower or second jointB (see) between the bottom walland the front, rear, left, and right walls,,,of the base. Further, the second stripis an integral one-piece structure. In some examples, the seamformed along the rear wall(see) of the baseextends into the second strip, meaning that sides of the second stripare also joined together along the seam(see) via, e.g., adhering, stitching, and/or welding. Correspondingly, the second stripis coupled to the bottom wallusing a suitable fastening technique, e.g., adhering, stitching, and/or welding. In some aspects, the second stripis formed of a similar material as the shell, e.g., polyester fabric, or a different material, e.g., rubber.

Still referring to, the second ridgemay mirror the first ridge(see), meaning that the second ridgeextends around the bottom wallof the baseand defines a curved or semi-circular profile that extends downwardly, i.e., along the y-axis(see), from the bottom wall. Correspondingly, the second ridgeelevates the containerabove the ground or another surface when the containeris placed upright. This in turn prevents the bottom wallfrom directly contacting the ground, which can reduce wear on the bottom wall. In some examples, the second ridgeis inset from the peripheral edge of the bottom wall, i.e., inset from the second strip. Moreover, the second ridgeis formed integrally with the bottom wallof the base. For example, the second ridgecan be formed during manufacture of the baseusing, e.g., injection molding, blow molding, stamping, die-casting, etc. In some aspects, a logois also be formed in the bottom wallduring the manufacture thereof. For example, the logocan be molded or directly embossed into the bottom wallof the base.

Referring now to, the containeris illustrated in an open position or configuration in which the lidhas been rotated via the hinge. Thus, it will be understood that the lidis capable of being rotated about the hinge axisto uncover the cavity. In some aspects, the lidcan rotate at least 270 degrees via the hinge, or at least 180 degrees via the hinge. As discussed above, the hingeserves as a connection point between the shelland the liner. In particular, the shellforms one side of the hinge, e.g., the side of the hinge along the rear wallof the base, and the linerforms an opposite side of the hinge, which is visible in. Moreover, the linerdefines an innermost surface of the containerand an interior volume.

Specifically, the portion of the linerin the baseis a cuboid or box-shaped container that is provided to nest within the cavityof the shellof the containerfor storage, protection, and thermal insulation of contents, e.g., beverage containers, received in the interior volume. However, it is contemplated that the linercan be formed in any suitable shape or combination of shapes, e.g., a cylinder. In some aspects, the lineris a rigid container that is self-supporting and imparts structural integrity and form to the shell. In other examples, the lineris provided as a soft and/or malleable material. In the non-limiting example illustrated in, a snug or tight fit is provided between the shell, the liner, and/or an insulation layer, which may be an airtight or waterproof/resistant fit. For example, a sealant or compound may be applied between the linerand the shellto prevent ingress or egress of air, water, gases, fluids, and the like.

In some embodiments, the lineris coupled to the shellby, for example, fasteners, an interference fit, glue, stitching, or welding (ultrasonic welding, RF welding, laser welding), among others. In some embodiments, the lineris removably, permanently, or semi-permanently coupled to the shell. For example, the linercan be removably coupled to the shellby fasteners that can be unfastened. In some embodiments, an adhesive may be applied to the linerand the shellfor permanent or semi-permanent attachment. In some examples, the lineris coupled to the shell, such as, e.g., by stitching provided on the walls,,,of the basenear the first endthereof. In the non-limiting example illustrated in, the shellis coupled to the linervia welding, e.g., high frequency welding, ultrasonic welding, and/or laser welding, along the first closureand the hinge. In some examples, the linerand the shellare configured to float when immersed in a body of water, thereby allowing the containerto buoyantly travel with or remain near a user engaged in a water activity and also preventing the containerfrom sinking. To accomplish such buoyancy, buoyant gases or materials may be provided between the linerand the shell, or within the linerand/or the shell, or coupled to the linerand/or the shell.

Moreover, the lineris constructed to be generally smooth, e.g., free of sharp corners or edges, although it is contemplated that the linerincludes one or more seams in some examples. Moreover, the lineris configured to be coupled tightly to the shelland to avoid tearing or ripping of the shell. In some examples, the linerincludes rigid portions or supports thereon, or a material that is substantially more rigid than the material of the shell, or a material that is substantially thicker than the material of the shell. Further, it is contemplated that a pull tab (not shown) may be coupled to the linerto facilitate removal of the linerfrom the shell. The linermay be constructed from injection molded plastic, such as, e.g., polypropylene (“PP”), homopolymer PP, Copolymer PP, Random Copolymer, thermoplastics, and/or any other plastics or polyolefins, or combinations thereof.

With continued reference to, the baseof the containerincludes an outer base layerdefined by the shell, an inner base layerdefined by the liner, and a base insulation layerdisposed therebetween (see). In some aspects, the outer base layer, inner base layer, and base insulation layer(see) define planar walls and are open on one end, e.g., the top or first end. When the containeris assembled, the inner base layer, i.e., the liner, is received and secured within the base insulation layer, i.e., the shell, and the base insulation layer(see) is received and secured therebetween. As discussed above, the shelland the linerare coupled to one another at the hinge, and it is contemplated that the shelland the linermay not be directly coupled to one another at any other location on the containerother than the hinge.

However, in the non-limiting example illustrated in, the outer base layerand the inner base layerare also coupled to one another along a portion of the first closurethat is coupled to the first endof the base, i.e., a lower or first halfA of the first closure. Put another way, a first halfA of the first closureextends around a periphery of the baseat the first endthereof. In particular, the outer base layeris coupled to an outer or first sideA of the first halfA of the first closure, and the base inner layer is coupled to an inner or second sideB of the first halfA of the first closure. In this way, a first jointA is formed between the shelland the liner, which in turn secures the linerto the container.

In some examples, the inner base layerdefines a seatat the first endof the container, and the seatextends around an inner periphery of each of the front, rear, left, and right walls,,,of the baseat the first end. In some aspects, the seatdefines a planar surface that is substantially parallel to the ZX plane (not shown), i.e., parallel to the z-axisand the x-axis. Specifically, the seatis formed atop the base insulation layer(see) and below the first halfA of the first closure. Thus, it will be understood that the first halfA of the first closureextends upward from the seatin a direction that is parallel to the y-axis. In some aspects, the inner base layerincludes seat seamsalong the peripheral edges of the seat, although it is contemplated that the inner base layermay alternatively be constructed as a generally smooth, one-piece structure as discussed above. In some examples, the inner base layeris secured to the other components of the base, e.g., the outer base layer, the base insulation layer(see), and/or the first halfA of the first closure, along one or more of the seat seams. Moreover, the seatis configured to receive a corresponding structure of the lidthereon when the lidis in the closed position, as will be discussed below in greater detail.

Referring now to the non-limiting examples illustrated in, the lidis configured as a lid assembly that includes an outer lid layerdefined by the shell, e.g., the top wallof the lidand the first strip, an inner lid layerdefined by the liner, and one or more lid insulation layers(see) disposed therebetween. In some aspects, the inner lid layeris an integral one-piece component, or the inner lid layerincludes a plurality of liner elements that are coupled to one another via, e.g., adhering, stitching, and/or welding. Moreover, a snug or tight fit is provided between the outer lid layer, the inner lid layer, and/or and the lid insulation layer(s)(see), which may be an airtight or waterproof/resistant fit. For example, a sealant or compound may be applied between the linerand the shellto prevent ingress or egress of air, water, gases, fluids, and the like. In addition, the outer lid layerand the inner lid layerare coupled to one another along the hinge(see) and a portion of the first closurethat is coupled to the lid, i.e., an upper or second halfB of the first closure. In particular, the outer lid layeris coupled to an outer or first sideA of the second halfB of the first closure, and the inner lid layeris coupled to an inner or second sideB of the second halfB of the first closure. In this way, a second jointB is formed between the shelland the liner, which in turn secures the linerto the container. In some aspects, the second halfB of the first closureextends around a periphery of the lid.

In some aspects, the inner lid layerand the lid insulation layer(s)(see) are coupled to an undersideof the lidand define a first portion or coverand a second portion or plug. The coveris coupled to the undersideof the lidand protrudes therefrom opposite the top wall, e.g., along the y-axistoward the basewhen the lidis in the closed position (see). Relatedly the plugprotrudes from the coveropposite the top wall, e.g., along the y-axistoward the basewhen the lidis in the closed position (see). In some examples, the coverand the plugdefine substantially rectangular profiles that are similar to the profiles of the baseand the lid. Moreover, the coverand the plugare aligned with one another, e.g., concentric with one another and the top wallof the lid, along the y-axiswhen the lidis in the closed position (see). Still further, the coverhas a smaller area than that of the top wall(see) of the lid, and the plughas a smaller area than the area of the cover.

Put another way, such that the lid insulation layersdefine a stepped profile that corresponds to the shape of the inner base layerand the seat. For example, the coverdefines a first step surface or rimaround the plug, the rimdefining a planar surface that is substantially parallel to the ZX plane (not shown) when the lid is in the closed position (see). Relatedly, the plugdefines a second step surface or first/bottom plug surfacethat abuts the interior volumeof the basewhen the lidis in the closed position (see). The bottom plug surfaceis also a substantially planar surface that is parallel to the ZX plane (not shown) when the lid is in the closed position (not shown), meaning that the bottom plug surfaceis parallel with respect to the rim. In addition, the plugdefines a second or side plug surfacearound the periphery thereof, and the side plug surfaceis configured to contact sides of the inner base layerthat define the interior volumewhen the lidis in the closed position (see), as will be discussed below in greater detail.

Referring now to, a cross-sectional view is illustrated of the containertaken through line-in, and the lidis in the closed position. As discussed above, the baseof the containerincludes the outer base layerdefined by the shell, the inner base layerdefined by the liner, and the base insulation layerthat is disposed between the outer base layerand the inner base layer. In a similar way, the lidof the containerincludes the outer lid layerdefined by the shell, the inner lid layerdefined by the liner, a first lid insulation layerA disposed between the outer lid layerand the inner lid layer, and a second lid insulation layerB covered by the inner lid layer. When the containeris assembled, the insulation layers,are injected between the outer layers,and the inner layers,, although it is contemplated that other configurations are also possible. In some aspects, the insulation layers,are placed or slipped between the outer layers,and inner layers,during the manufacturing process. For example, the inner layers,are received and secured within outer layers,, and the insulation layers,are received or slipped between the outer layers,and the inner layers,.