Collapsible cooler convertible to a stadium seat

What is this patent about?

’194 is related to the field of portable insulated containers and, more specifically, to soft-sided coolers designed for outdoor events like tailgating. The invention addresses the logistical challenge of managing bulky food storage containers at venues that prohibit large coolers, providing a way to repurpose the container into a functional piece of furniture rather than returning it to a distant vehicle.

The underlying idea behind ’194 is a geometric conversion mechanism that transforms a three-dimensional rectangular volume into a reinforced chair structure. By utilizing a flexible shell and specific fold lines, the cooler’s internal volume is collapsed in a way that reorients the lid and sidewalls to serve as structural supports and cushioning for a seat, rather than just a storage cavity.

The claims of ’194 focus on a flexible collapsible shell where the top lid and sidewalls are specifically articulated to transition between two states. The independent claims require the top lid to fold downward against the inner back wall to form a backrest, while the sidewalls feature top portions that fold diagonally against their lower sections to create upright side bolsters for the seat.

In practice, the conversion is achieved by unzipping the lid and tucking it behind the rear wall, where it is secured by hook-and-loop fasteners. The sidewalls are then pushed inward along a 45-degree diagonal line, effectively flattening the front of the cooler while leaving the bottom wall to serve as a padded base. A spring-loaded engagement hook located on the underside of the base allows the user to anchor the seat directly to a stadium bench, preventing it from sliding during use.

This approach differs from prior art by integrating the seat back and side supports directly into the cooler's own fabric and frame, rather than simply using a rigid lid as a flat stool. By incorporating a telescopically extendable handle that doubles as a headrest and utilizing internal plywood plates for load distribution, the invention provides a stable, ergonomic seating solution that bypasses venue restrictions on traditional hard-sided coolers.