Cellulose based recyclable container
Disclosed is a portable cooler device comprised of recyclable materials. Some embodiments of the device comprise components constructed entirely of, or substantially of, cellulose. Other embodiments may be comprised of recyclable materials not classified as cellulose such as, but not limited to, cotton, bamboo, hemp, or other natural fibers. The specific percentages of recycled and/or recyclable content are not limiting factors for the invention; however, most embodiments have consistent materials of construction such that the entire device may be recycled in a single recycling process without the need for deconstruction. Further, if not recycled, embodiments are operable to biodegrade within a reasonable amount of time when exposed to the elements in a landfill. Typical embodiments are comprised of an inner shell, an outer shell having an integrally hinged lid, and pressed cellulose insulating boards sandwiched between the shells.
1. A device for impeding the transfer of energy, the device being comprised of:
an inner shell defining a first interior space and a single opening that provides access to the first interior space, wherein the first interior space and single opening are defined by a bottom surface and a plurality of side wall surfaces extending in planes substantially perpendicular to a plane defined by the bottom surface;
wherein each of the side wall surfaces further comprises a tab component having a first part and a second part at the end distal to the bottom surface, wherein the first part is formed to be positioned in a plane substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the side wall and the second part is formed to be positioned in a plane substantially parallel to the plane defined by the side wall, wherein a gap is formed between the second part and the sidewall;
an outer shell defining a second interior space with an opening that provides access to the second interior space, wherein the second interior space is sufficiently large to receive the inner shell; and
an insulating component comprising a recyclable, cellulose based material, the insulating component is positioned between the gap and a space defined by an inner surface of the outer shell and an outer surface of the inner shell when the inner shell is inserted into the second interior space.
2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the first interior space is operable to contain a liquid.
3. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a separable lid component that can be moved between an open position and a closed position, wherein the separable lid component is configured to close the opening defined by the inner shell.
4. The device of claim 1 , further comprising an integral lid to the outer shell that can be moved between an open position and a closed position, wherein the integral lid is configured to close the opening defined by the inner shell.
5. The device of claim 4 , wherein the integral lid is hinged to the outer shell via a crease mechanism.
6. The device of claim 1 , wherein each of the inner shell, outer shell and insulating component is comprised of substantially the same material.
7. The device of claim 6 , wherein at least one of the inner shell, outer shell and insulating component is comprised of a material that contains recycled materials.
8. The device of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the inner shell, outer shell and insulating component is comprised of a material that contains plastic and cellulose.
9. The device of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the inner shell, outer shell and insulating component is comprised of a material that contains natural fibers.
10. The device of claim 1 , wherein the outer surface of the outer shell is suitable for graphic printing.
11. The device of claim 1 , wherein the outer shell further comprises at least one cutout area operable as a handle.
12. The device of claim 1 , wherein the outer shell further comprises at least one cutout area operable to accommodate a strap handle.
13. The device of claim 12 further comprising a strap handle, wherein the strap handle is made of a recyclable material.
14. The device of claim 1 , wherein the shape of the device is suitable for nesting with similar devices.
15. The device of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the inner shell, outer shell and insulating component is comprised of a material that is biodegradable.
16. The device of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the inner shell, outer shell and insulating component is comprised of a recyclable, cellulose based material.
17. The device of claim 1 , wherein the insulating component is comprised of a substantially rigid panel manufactured from pressed cellulose.