US 20210285710A1

INI
( 19) United States
( 12 ) BARROS
Patent Application
et al .
Publication ((4310)) Pub
Pub.. Date
No .: :US 2021/0285710 A1
Sep. 16 , 2021
( 54 ) CONTAINER WITH AXLE - LESS WHEEL Publication Classification
ASSEMBLY (51 ) Int. CI .
F250 3/06 (2006.01 )
( 71 ) Applicant: Igloo Products Corp. , Katy, TX ( US ) B62B 1/18 (2006.01 )
(52) U.S. CI.
( 72 ) Inventors: Roque BARROS , Katy, TX (US ) ; ??? F250 3/06 ( 2013.01 ) ; B62B 2301/05
Robert Allan ROSS , Cypress, TX ( 2013.01 ) ; F250 2400/38 ( 2013.01 ) ; B62B
(US ) ; Quang Lee DUONG , Katy, TX 1/18 ( 2013.01 )
(US ) ; Nicholas DEKEYSER , Katy, TX (57) ABSTRACT
(US ) ; James MCKENRICK , Katy, TX A container with an axle - less wheel assembly can include : a
(US ) ; Ninh PHAM , Katy, TX (US ) substantially hollow body including a first wheel retention
( 21 ) Appl . No .: 17 / 259,004 portion and a second wheel retention portion; and a wheel
assembly including a first wheel including a shaft continu
May 14 , 2019 ously formed with the first wheel extending from a center
(22 ) PCT Filed : portion of the first wheel , and a second wheel including a
shaft continuously formed with the second wheel extending
( 86 ) PCT No .: PCT/US2019/ 032206 from a center portion of the second wheel . The first wheel
§ 371 (c ) ( 1 ) , can be rotatably secured in the first wheel retention portion
(2 ) Date : Jan. 8 , 2021 when the shaft is inserted into the first wheel retention
portion , and the second wheel can be rotatably secured in the
second wheel retention portion when the shaft is inserted
Related U.S. Application Data into the second wheel retention portion. The first wheel can
be uncoupled to the second wheel such that the first wheel
( 60 ) Provisional application No. 62 / 697,036 , filed on Jul . and the second wheel operate independently from each
12 , 2018 . other.

100

110

120

121
Patent Application Publication Sep. 16 , 2021 Sheet 1 of 10 US 2021/0285710 A1

100

110

120

121

FIG . 1

110

120

FIG . 2
Patent Application Publication Sep. 16 , 2021 Sheet 2 of 10 US 2021/0285710 A1

110

120

FIG . 3

130

Lite

FIG . 4
Patent Application Publication Sep. 16 , 2021 Sheet 3 of 10 US 2021/0285710 A1

132

130
133
131

FIG . 5
Patent Application Publication Sep. 16 , 2021 Sheet 4 of 10 US 2021/0285710 A1

120 -125

124
122

123

FIG . 6
Patent Application Publication Sep. 16 , 2021 Sheet 5 of 10 US 2021/0285710 A1

120 125

122 124

123
121

FIG . 7
Patent Application Publication Sep. 16 , 2021 Sheet 6 of 10 US 2021/0285710 A1

120

122

130

FIG . 8
Patent Application Publication Sep. 16 , 2021 Sheet 7 of 10 US 2021/0285710 A1

130

122

120

FIG.9
Patent Application Publication Sep. 16 , 2021 Sheet 8 of 10 US 2021/0285710 A1

100

110 140

130

150

FIG . 10
Patent Application Publication Sep. 16 , 2021 Sheet 9 of 10 US 2021/0285710 A1

**** ention

G
141 141
140 140

FIG . 11

140
110
150 130
141

133

FIG . 12
Patent Application Publication Sep. 16 , 2021 Sheet 10 of 10 US 2021/0285710 A1

140
130
150
151

131

FIG . 13

151 154
152
153 153
156 154
151

155 0
150 150

FIG . 14
US 2021/0285710 Al Sep. 16, 2021
1

CONTAINER WITH AXLE - LESS WHEEL is inserted into the first wheel retention portion, and the
ASSEMBLY second wheel can be rotatably secured in the second wheel
retention portion when the shaft of the second wheel is
CROSS - REFERENCE TO RELATED inserted into the second wheel retention portion . The first
APPLICATION wheel can be uncoupled to the second wheel such that the
[ 0001 ] This application is an International Patent Appli first wheel and the second wheel operate independently from
cation which claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. each other .
$ 119 (e ) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/697 , [ 0007] Each of the first and second wheel retention por
036 , filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Jul. 12 , tions can include a plurality of ribs , and each of the plurality
2018 , the entire contents ofwhich are incorporated herein by of ribs can have an aperture formed therein configured to
reference . receive the shaft of the first wheel or the shaft of the second
wheel .
TECHNICAL FIELD [ 0008 ] The plurality of ribs of each of the first and second
wheel retention portions can include at least two ribs later
[ 0002 ] The present disclosure relates generally to contain ally separated from each other.
ers with wheel assemblies , and more particularly, to a [ 0009 ] The at least two ribs of each of the first and second
container with an axle - less wheel assembly. wheel retention portions can longitudinally extend in paral
BACKGROUND lel with each other.
[ 0010 ] When the shaft of the first wheel is retained in the
[ 0003 ] Containers used for portable storage of food or first wheel retention portion, an inner sidewall of a distal
beverages , such as coolers, ice chests , and the like , are portion of the shaft of the first wheel can abut a surface of
frequently transported by users from one location to another, an innermost rib of the first wheel retention portion so as to
e.g. , from a user's vehicle to a picnic in a park . Many such prevent the shaft of the first wheel from exiting the first
containers utilize a wheel assembly for convenient transpor wheel retention portion . Also , when the shaft of the second
tation, allowing the user to easily move the container with wheel is retained in the second wheel retention portion, an
out manually lifting and carrying the same . inner sidewall of a distal portion of the shaft of the second
[ 0004 ] The wheel assembly typically comprises a set of wheel can abut a surface of an innermost rib of the second
two (or more ) wheels disposed on opposing sides of the wheel retention portion so as to prevent the shaft of the
container and coupled to each other via an axle traversing second wheel from exiting the second wheel retention
the width of the container. The axle is commonly an elon portion .
gated , cylindrical bar made of metal or other material. The [ 0011 ] The plurality of ribs of each of the first and second
wheel assembly can include several additional parts as well , wheel retention portions can include at least two longitudi
including bolts, fasteners, spacers, ferrules, and the like, for nally extending ribs and at least one laterally extending rib
rotatably attaching the wheels to the axle at opposing ends intersecting the at least two longitudinally extending ribs .
thereof. Problematically, utilization of such components can [ 0012 ] Each shaft of the first and second wheels can
drive up production costs , particularly when a container with include an angular ramp portion with respect to a longitu
a wheel assembly is being manufactured on a large scale . dinal axis of the shaft at distal ends of each shaft of the first
SUMMARY
and second wheels . The ramp portion of each shaft of the
first and second wheels can include a first diameter at a
[ 0005 ] The present disclosure provides an axle - less wheel proximal end thereof which is greater than a second diam
assembly for a container, such as a cooler, an ice chest, or the eter at a distal end thereof.
like , in which a pair of wheels can be rotatably attached to [ 0013 ] Each of the first and second wheels can include a
a body of the container without use of an axle or similar plurality of spokes radially extending from the center por
component which couples the wheels together. As a result, tion of each of the first and second wheels.
the wheels can rotate independently of each other. The [ 0014 ] Each shaft of the first and second wheels can
container can include a pair of wheel retention portions include a proximal portion, a middle portion, and a distal
configured to receive and secure the wheels . The wheel portion, a diameter of the middle portion being less than
retention portions can secure the wheels via a shaft extend diameters of the proximal portion and the distal portion,
ing from a center of the wheels , or via elongated pins respectively .
inserted through a center channel of the wheels . [ 0015 ] The proximal portion and the middle portion of
[ 0006 ] According to embodiments of the present disclo each shaft of the first and second wheels can be formed with
sure, a container with an axle - less wheel assembly can surfaces parallel to a longitudinal axis of the shaft, and the
include : a substantially hollow body including a first wheel distal portion of each shaft of the first and second wheels can
retention portion formed at a position on a first side of the be formed with an angular surface with respect to the
body and a second wheel retention portion formed at a longitudinal axis of the shaft.
position corresponding to the position of the first wheel [ 0016 ] The first wheel retention portion and the second
retention portion on a second side of the body opposite the wheel retention portion can each include two ribs having an
first side of the body; and a wheel assembly including a first aperture formed therein configured to receive the shaft of the
wheel including a shaft continuously formed with the first first wheel and the shaft of the second wheel , respectively .
wheel extending from a center portion of the first wheel , and Each of the two ribs of the first and second wheel retention
a second wheel including a shaft continuously formed with portions can longitudinally extend in parallel with each
the second wheel extending from a center portion of the other . Also , when the first wheel and the second wheel are
second wheel . The first wheel can be rotatably secured in the rotatably secured in the first wheel retention portion and the
first wheel retention portion when the shaft of the first wheel second wheel retention portion, respectively, the middle
US 2021/0285710 A1 Sep. 16, 2021
2

portion of each shaft of the first and second wheels can be BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
positioned substantially between each of the two ribs of the [ 0025 ] The embodiments herein may be better understood
first and second wheel retention portions. by referring to the following description in conjunction with
[ 0017] The body can be formed by an injection molding the accompanying drawings in which like reference numer
process , and the first and second wheels can be formed by als indicate identically or functionally similar elements , of
the injection molding process or a blow molding process . which :
[ 0018 ] The container can further include a lid removably [ 0026 ] FIG . 1 is a side view of a container with an
coupled to an opening of the body. axle- less wheel assembly ;
[ 0019 ] Furthermore, in accordance with embodiments of [ 0027] FIG . 2 is a perspective view of the container with
the present disclosure, a container with an axle - less wheel an axle - less wheel assembly of FIG . 1 ;
assembly can include : a substantially hollow body including [ 0028 ] FIG . 3 is a rear view of the container with an
a first wheel retention portion formed at a position on a first axle - less wheel assembly of FIG . 1 ;
side of the body and a second wheel retention portion [ 0029 ] FIG . 4 is a bottom view of the container with an
formed at a position corresponding to the position of the first axle - less wheel assembly of FIG . 1 ;
wheel retention portion on a second side of the body [ 0030 ] FIG . 5 is a perspective view of a wheel retention
opposite the first side of the body ; and a wheel assembly portion ;
including an elongated first securing pin , a first wheel [ 0031 ] FIG . 6 is a side view of a wheel with a shaft
including a channel formed through a center portion of the extending there from ;
first wheel configured to receive the first securing pin , an [ 0032 ] FIG . 7 is a perspective view of the wheel of FIG .
elongated second securing pin , and a second wheel includ 6 ; and
ing a channel formed through a center portion of the second [ 0033 ] FIG . 8 is a perspective view of a first wheel
wheel configured to receive the second securing pin . The rotatably secured in a first wheel retention portion ;
first wheel can be rotatably secured in the first wheel [ 0034 ] FIG . 9 is a perspective view of a second wheel
retention portion when the first securing pin is inserted rotatably secured in a second wheel retention portion ;
through the channel of the first wheel into the first wheel
retention portion , and the second wheel can be rotatably [ 0035 ] FIG . 10 is an exploded view of a container with an
secured in the second wheel retention portion when the alternative axle - less wheel assembly ;
second securing pin is inserted through the channel of the [ 0036 ] FIG . 11 includes perspective views of the outer and
second wheel into the second wheel retention portion . The inner surfaces, respectively , of wheels for the axle - less
first wheel can be uncoupled to the second wheel such that wheel assembly of FIG . 10 ;
the first wheel and the second wheel operate independently [ 0037] FIG . 12 illustrates a rear cross - sectional view of the
from each other. axle - less wheel assembly of FIG . 10 in a state where the
[ 0020 ] The first and second securing pins can include first wheels are unsecured to the body;
and second locking tips , respectively, disposed at a distal end [ 0038 ] FIG . 13 illustrates a rear cross - sectional view of the
thereof. The first and second locking tips can be configured axle - less wheel assembly of FIG . 10 in a state where the
to securably engage with the first and second wheel retention wheels are secured to the body; and
portions, respectively. [ 0039 ] FIG . 14 includes two perspective views of securing
[ 0021 ] Each of the first and second locking tips can pins for the axle - less wheel assembly of FIG . 10 .
include a pair of compressible flanges . [ 0040 ] It should be understood that the above - referenced
[ 0022 ] Each of the first and second locking tips can drawings are not necessarily to scale , presenting a somewhat
include an indentation portion configured to securably simplified representation of various preferred features illus
engage with an innermost longitudinal rib of the first or trative of the basic principles of the disclosure. The specific
second wheel retention portion . design features of the present disclosure , including, for
[ 0023 ] Furthermore, in accordance with embodiments of example, specific dimensions, orientations, locations, and
the present disclosure, a wheel assembly for a container can shapes , will be determined in part by the particular intended
include : a circular wheel having an outer surface and an application and use environment.
inner surface; and a shaft continuously formed with the DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
wheel extending from a center portion of the inner surface EMBODIMENTS
of the wheel , the shaft configured to be received in a wheel
retention portion of the container so as to rotatably secure [ 0041 ] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure
the wheel in the wheel retention portion of the container. The will be described in detail with reference to the accompa
shaft can include a proximal portion , a middle portion, and nying drawings. As those skilled in the art would realize, the
a distal portion, a diameter of the middle portion being less described embodiments may be modified in various different
than respective diameters of the proximal portion and the ways , all without departing from the spirit or scope of the
distal portion. present disclosure . Further, throughout the specification, like
[ 0024 ] Furthermore, in accordance with embodiments of reference numerals refer to like elements .
the present disclosure, a wheel assembly for a container can [0042] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of
include : an elongated securing pin ; and a circular wheel describing particular embodiments only and is not intended
including a channel formed through a center portion thereof to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein , the singular
configured to receive the securing pin . The wheel can be forms “ a ,” “ an , ” and “ the” are intended to include the plural
configured to be rotatably secured in a wheel retention forms as well , unless the context clearly indicates otherwise .
portion of the container when the securing pin is inserted It will be further understood that the terms " comprises ”
through the channel of the wheel into the wheel retention and / or " comprising," when used in this specification , specify
portion of the container. the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations,
US 2021/0285710 A1 Sep. 16, 2021
3

elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the pres corresponding to a position on the second side of the body
ence or addition of one or more other features , integers, 110 at which the second wheel retention portion 130 is
steps , operations, elements, components, and / or groups formed .
thereof. As used herein , the term “ and / or ” includes any and [ 0048 ] FIG . 5 is a perspective view of a single wheel
all combinations of one or more of the associated listed retention portion 130 , which can correspond to either the
items . first wheel retention portion or the second wheel retention
[ 0043 ] Referring now to embodiments of the present dis portion. As shown in FIG . 5 , the wheel retention portion 130
closure , the disclosed axle -less wheel assembly for a con can include a plurality of ribs 131/132 formed into the body
tainer, such as a cooler, an ice chest , or the like , can include 110 of the container 100. The plurality of ribs can include a
a pair of wheels rotatably attached to a body of the container plurality of longitudinal ribs 131 extending longitudinally in
without use of an axle or similar component which couples parallel with each other. The plurality of longitudinal ribs
the wheels together. The container can include a pair of 131 can be formed such that they are laterally separated from
wheel retention portions configured to receive and secure the each other.
wheels . The wheel retention portions can secure the wheels [ 0049 ] An aperture 133 can be formed in one or more of
via a shaft extending from a center of the wheels, or via the plurality of the ribs 131/132 . More specifically, the
elongated pins inserted through a center channel of the aperture 133 can be formed in each of the plurality of
wheels . Eliminating the axle and related parts can reduce longitudinal ribs 131. The aperture 133 can be circular in
costs and increase simplicity during manufacturing of the shape so as to receive a wheel 120 , as described in greater
container . detail below .
[ 0044 ] FIGS . 1-4 include various views of a container [ 0050 ] The plurality of ribs can further include at least one
with an axle -less wheel assembly according to embodiments lateral rib 132 extending laterally and intersecting the plu
of the present disclosure . FIG . 1 is a side view of a container rality of longitudinal ribs 131. The aperture 133 may not be
with an axle - less wheel assembly ; FIG . 2 is a perspective formed in the at least one lateral rib 132. The at least one
view of the container with an axle - less wheel assembly of lateral rib 132 can function to provide additional stability to
FIG . 1 ; FIG . 3 is a rear view of the container with an the plurality of longitudinal ribs 131 .
axle - less wheel assembly of FIG . 1 ; and FIG . 4 is a bottom [ 0051 ] Referring again to FIGS . 1-4 , the container 100 can
view of the container with an axle - less wheel assembly of further include a wheel assembly which includes a plurality
FIG . 1 . of wheels 120. In one example, the plurality of wheels 120
[ 0045 ] As shown in FIGS . 1-4 , the container 100 can be , can include a first wheel and a second wheel , although the
for instance, a cooler, an ice chest , or other similar container plurality of wheels 120 may include more than two wheels .
designed for portable storage of food , beverages , or other The first wheel 120 can be disposed on the first side of the
items . The container 100 can include a substantially hollow body 110 at which the first wheel retention portion 130 is
body 110. The body 110 can be formed with a plurality of formed . The second wheel 120 can be disposed on the
walls coupled together by a bottom portion ( i.e. , floor ). The second side of the body 110 opposite the first side of the
plurality of walls of the body 110 can form an opening so as body 110 at which the second wheel retention portion 130 is
to provide access to the interior of the container 100. A lid formed . The first wheel 120 can be disposed at a position on
( not shown) can couple to the body 110 so as to removably the first side of the body 110 corresponding to a position on
cover the opening and enclose the body 110 . the second side of the body 110 at which the second wheel
[ 0046 ] In one example, the body 110 can be formed by an 120 is disposed
injection molding process, the details of which being gen [ 0052 ] The wheels 120 can include a circular body having
erally known in the art . The body 110 ( or portions thereof) an outer surface and an inner surface (with respect to the
can be formed of any suitable type of plastic or combinations body 110 ) . The wheels 120 can further include a plurality of
of plastic including, but not limited to , for example , poly spokes 121 radially extending from the center portion of the
ethylene terephthalate (PET ) , high -density polyethylene, wheels 120 .
low -density polyethylene , vinyl, polypropylene, polysty [ 0053 ] In one example, the plurality of wheels 120 can be
rene , or the like . In another example, the body 110 can be formed by processes including , but not limited to , an injec
formed by a blow molding process , the details of which tion molding process and a blow molding process, the details
being generally known in the art . Also , the body 110 can be of which being generally known in the art. The wheels 120
insulated so as to maintain contents of the container 100 at (or portions thereof) can be formed of any suitable type of
a relatively stable temperature. plastic or combinations of plastic including, but not limited
[ 0047] As shown in FIG . 4 , the body 110 can include a to , for example , polyethylene terephthalate (PET ), high
plurality of wheel retention portions 130. The plurality of density polyethylene, low - density polyethylene, vinyl, poly
wheel retention portions 130 can be formed into the body propylene, polystyrene, or the like . Alternatively, the wheels
110 of the container 100 i.e., without ancillary attach 120 can be made of a suitable different material, such as
ments ). In one example, the plurality of wheel retention rubber, ceramic , or the like.
portions 130 can include a first wheel retention portion and [ 0054 ] FIGS . 6 and 7 illustrate a single wheel 120 , which
a second wheel retention portion, although the plurality of can correspond to either the first wheel or the second wheel.
wheel retention portions 130 may include more than two FIG . 6 is a side view of the wheel 120 , and FIG . 7 is a
wheel retention portions. The first wheel retention portion perspective view of the wheel 120. As shown in FIGS . 6 and
130 can be formed on a first side of the body 110 , and the 7 , the wheel assembly can further include a shaft 122 which
second wheel retention portion 130 can be formed on a is integrally, i.e. , continuously, formed with the wheel 120 .
second side of the body 110 opposite the first side of the The shaft 122 can extend from a center portion of the inner
body 110. The first wheel retention portion 130 can be surface of the wheel 120. The shaft 122 can be formed to be
formed at a position on the first side of the body 110 substantially hollow or otherwise . In one example, a proxi
US 2021/0285710 A1 Sep. 16 , 2021
4

mal portion of the shaft 122 can be integrally, i.e. , continu retention portion 130 , as illustrated in FIG . 8. In this manner ,
ously, formed with the plurality of spokes 121 of the wheel the shaft 122 can be prevented from exiting the wheel
120 . retention portion 130 in an outward direction (with respect
[ 0055 ] The shaft 122 can include, for example, a proximal to the body 110 ) . That is , after the distal portion 125 passes
portion 123 , a middle portion 124 , and a distal portion 125 . through the innermost longitudinal rib 131 , the inner side
In one example, the shaft 122 can be formed such that one wall of the distal portion 125 can contact the inner surface
or more of the proximal portion 123 , the middle portion 124 , of the innermost rib 131 so as to prevent outward movement
and the distal portion 125 includes varying diameters . For of the wheel 120 .
instance, the middle portion 124 of the shaft 122 can be less [ 0060 ] In addition , an outward facing surface of the body
than the diameters of the proximal portion 123 and the distal 110 opposing the inner surface of the innermost longitudinal
portion 125 , respectively . The respective diameters of the rib 131 can function as a stop preventing further inward
proximal portion 123 and the distal portion 125 may be movement of the wheel 120. Similarly, the shaft 122 can be
approximately equal to each other, though the dimensions of designed such that an inner sidewall of the proximal portion
the shaft 122 are not limited thereto . 123 abuts an outward facing surface of the outermost
[ 0056 ] Furthermore, the distal portion 125 can include an longitudinal rib 131 when the shaft 122 is fully inserted in
angular ramp portion with respect to a longitudinal axis of the wheel retention portion 130. In this manner, contact
the shaft 122. That is , the shaft 122 can be formed such that between the inner sidewall of the proximal portion 123 and
the surface of the distal portion 125 is inclined or conically a surface of the outermost longitudinal rib 131 can also
shaped with respect to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 122 . prevent further inward movement of the wheel 120 .
As shown in FIGS . 6 and 7 , the ramp portion of the distal Although, the shaft 122 need not be designed such that the
portion 125 can include a first diameter at a proximal end proximal portion 123 engages with the outermost rib 131 in
thereof which is greater than a second diameter at a distal this manner. For example , the shaft 122 can be formed such
end thereof. The ramp portion of the distal portion 125 can that the proximal portion 123 traverses the outermost lon
facilitate insertion ( i.e. , reduce friction ) of the shaft 122 gitudinal rib 131 , as shown in FIGS . 8 and 9. As further
through the aperture 133 of the wheel retention portion 130 . shown in FIGS . 8 and 9 , when the wheel 120 is rotatably
The ramp portion, i.e. , the inclined or conically shaped secured in the wheel retention portion 130 , the middle
portion , can correspond to the entire distal portion 125 or portion 124 of the shaft 123 can be positioned substantially
only a portion of the distal portion 125. The tip of the distal between the two longitudinal ribs 131 of the wheel retention
portion 125 can be tapered or rounded to further facilitate portion 130 .
insertion of the shaft 122 through the aperture 133 of the [ 0061 ] Notably, because the first and second wheel reten
wheel retention portion 130. On the other hand, the proximal tion portions 130 are formed on opposite sides of the body
portion 123 and the middle portion 124 of the shaft 122 can 110 , the first and second wheels 120 can be uncoupled to one
be formed with surfaces parallel to the longitudinal axis of another. That is , the first wheel retention portion 130 can
the shaft 122 . rotatably secure the first wheel 120 therein independently of
[ 0057 ] FIG . 8 is a perspective view of a first wheel 120 the second wheel retention portion 130 rotatably securing
rotatably secured in a first wheel retention portion 130 , and the second wheel 120 therein . As a result, the first and
FIG . 9 is a perspective view of a second wheel 120 rotatably second wheels 120 can operate (e.g. , rotate ) independently
secured in a second wheel retention portion 130. The first from each other, wherein an axle or related parts are unnec
wheel retention portion 130 can be formed at a position on essary for securing the wheels together.
the first side of the body 110 corresponding to a position on [ 0062 ] FIG . 10 is an exploded view of the container 100
the second side of the body 110 at which the second wheel with an alternative axle - less wheel assembly. As shown in
retention portion 130 is formed, and the first wheel 120 can FIG . 10 , the wheel assembly can include a plurality of
be disposed at a position on the first side of the body 110 wheels 140 and a plurality of elongated securing pins 150 .
corresponding to a position on the second side of the body Similar to the plurality of wheels 120 described above, the
110 at which the second wheel 120 is disposed . The first and plurality of wheels 140 can include a first wheel and a
second wheels can be identically designed ; likewise , the first second wheel , although the plurality of wheels 140 may
and second wheel retention portions can be identically include more than two wheels . The first wheel 140 can be
designed . Therefore, for purposes of simplification , a single disposed on a first side of the body 110 at which the first
wheel 120 and a single wheel retention portion 130 will be wheel retention portion 130 is formed . The second wheel
described below in reference to FIGS . 8 and 9 . 140 can be disposed on a second side of the body 110
[ 0058 ] As shown in FIGS . 8 and 9 , the wheel 120 can be opposite the first side of the body 110 at which the second
rotatably secured in the wheel retention portion 130 when wheel retention portion 130 is formed . The first wheel 140
the shaft 122 of the wheel 120 is inserted into the wheel can be disposed at a position on the first side of the body 110
retention portion 130. The aperture 133 of the wheel reten corresponding to a position on the second side of the body
tion portion 130 can be circularly shaped corresponding to 110 at which the second wheel 140 is disposed .
the substantially cylindrical shape of the shaft 122 , thus [ 0063 ] Unlike the wheels 120 formed with a shaft 122
allowing for the wheel 120 to rotate backward and/ or extending therefrom , the wheels 140 can be formed with a
forward in the wheel retention portion 130 . channel 141 in a center portion of the wheels 140 configured
[ 0059 ] The wheel retention portion 130 can secure the to receive one of the securing pins 150. FIG . 11 includes
wheel 120 therein when the shaft 122 of the wheel 120 is perspective views of the outer and inner surfaces, respec
inserted through the aperture 133 in an inward direction tively, of the wheels 140. As shown in FIG . 11 , the channel
(with respect to the body 110 ) such that an inner sidewall of 141 of the wheels 140 can be formed circularly or cylindri
the distal portion 125 of the shaft 122 abuts an inward facing cally so as to correspond to the cylindrical shape of the
surface of an innermost longitudinal rib 131 of the wheel securing pins 150. In one example , the channel 141 can
US 2021/0285710 A1 Sep. 16, 2021
5

extend from an inner surface of the wheels 140 , such that a rotatably secure the first wheel 140 therein independently of
portion of the channel 141 is received in the aperture 133 of the second wheel retention portion 130 rotatably securing
one or more of the longitudinal ribs 131. The channel 141 the second wheel 140 therein . As a result, the first and
need not be formed to extend into the aperture 133 , however. second wheels 140 can operate (e.g. , rotate) independently
[ 0064 ] The channel 141 of the wheels 140 can be designed from each other, wherein an axle or related parts are unnec
so as to receive one of the elongated securing pins 150 essary for securing the wheels together.
therethrough. In this regard , FIG . 12 illustrates a rear cross [ 0070 ] Accordingly , the container with an axle - less wheel
sectional view of the axle - less wheel assembly of FIG . 10 in assembly disclosed herein can eliminate the need for an axle
a state where the wheels 140 are unsecured to the body 110 , traversing the width of the container in order to couple the
and FIG . 13 illustrates a rear cross -sectional view of the wheels . A conventional process for manufacturing a con
axle - less wheel assembly of FIG . 10 in a state where the tainer ( e.g. , a cooler, an ice chest, etc.) with wheels includes
wheels 140 are secured to the body 110. As shown in FIG . steps of procuring and installing an axle, typically made of
12 , the plurality of securing pins 150 can include a first metal , along with additional related parts including bolts ,
securing pin and a second securing pin , or more, depending fasteners, spacers , ferrules, and the like . Therefore, elimi
on the number of wheels 140. The number of wheels 140 can nating the need for an axle and other related parts can reduce
correspond to the number of securing pins 150 . both time and expenses during the manufacturing process .
[ 0065 ] Upon insertion of the securing pin 150 into the Moreover, the wheel retention system described herein can
channel 141 of a wheel 140 , as shown in FIG . 13 , the maintain structural integrity and durability of the wheel
securing pin 150 can extend into the wheel retention portion assembly .
130 in a manner similar to the shaft 122 as described above. [ 0071 ] The foregoing description has been directed to
When the securing pin 150 is inserted through the channel certain embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be
141 of the wheel 140 into the wheel retention portion 130 , apparent, however, that other variations and modifications
the securing pin 150 can effectively lock into the innermost may be made to the described embodiments , with the
longitudinal rib 131 of the wheel retention portion 130 , attainment of some or all of their advantages. Accordingly,
thereby rotatably securing the wheel 120 in the wheel this description is to be taken only by way of example and
retention portion 130. In one example , the securing pin 150 not to otherwise limit the scope of the embodiments herein .
can rotate along with the wheel 140. In another example , the Therefore, it is the object of the appended claims to cover all
wheel 140 can rotate while the securing pin 150 can remain such variations and modifications as come within the true
substantially stationary within the wheel retention portion spirit and scope of the embodiments herein .
130 . What is claimed is :
[ 0066 ] FIG . 14 includes two perspective views of the 1. A container with an axle - less wheel assembly compris
securing pins 150. As shown in FIG . 14 , the securing pin 150 ing :
can include a proximal end 151 having a diameter slightly
greater than a diameter of the opening of the channel 141 a substantially hollow body including a first wheel reten
formed on the outer surface of a wheel 140. The diameter of tion portion formed at a position on a first side of the
the proximal end 151 can also be greater than a diameter of body and a second wheel retention portion formed at a
the body 152 of the securing pin 150. Accordingly, the position corresponding to the position of the first wheel
proximal end 151 can operate as a stop so as to prevent retention portion on a second side of the body opposite
insertion of the securing pin 150 beyond the outer surface the first side of the body ; and
opening of the channel 141 , as demonstrated in FIG . 13 . a wheel assembly including
[ 0067] The securing pin 150 can include a plurality of a first wheel including a shaft continuously formed with
indentations 153 disposed circumferentially on a surface of the first wheel extending from a center portion of the
the body 152. Each indentation 153 can be configured to first wheel , and
engage with a protrusion ( not shown ) disposed on an inner a second wheel including a shaft continuously formed
surface of the channel 141 and / or wheel retention portion with the second wheel extending from a center
130. Furthermore, the securing pin 150 can include a locking portion of the second wheel , wherein
tip 154 disposed at a distal end thereof. The locking tip 154 the first wheel is rotatably secured in the first wheel
can securably engage with the wheel retention portion 130 retention portion when the shaft of the first wheel is
so as to secure the locking pin 150 and wheel 140 within the inserted into the first wheel retention portion ,
wheel retention portion 130 , as described below. the second wheel is rotatably secured in the second wheel
[ 0068 ] The locking tip 154 can include a ramp portion at retention portion when the shaft of the second wheel is
the distal end thereof, to facilitate passage of the securing inserted into the second wheel retention portion, and
pin 150 through the aperture 133 , and a pair of flanges 155
configured to compress inward toward each other while the first wheel is uncoupled to the second wheel such that
passing through the aperture 133 of the innermost longitu the first wheel and the second wheel operate indepen
dinal rib 131. After passing through the aperture 133 of the dently from each other.
innermost longitudinal rib 131 , the flanges 155 can decom 2. The container of claim 1 , wherein each of the first and
press to their natural state . Here , an inner surface of the second wheel retention portions includes a plurality of ribs,
innermost longitudinal rib 131 can engage with an indenta each of the plurality of ribs having an aperture formed
tion portion 156 formed at a proximal end of the locking tip therein configured to receive the shaft of the first wheel or
154 so as to secure the locking pin 150 in place . the shaft of the second wheel .
[ 0069 ] Similar to the wheel assembly described previ 3. The container of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of ribs
ously, the first and second wheels 140 can be uncoupled to of each of the first and second wheel retention portions
one another. That is , the first wheel retention portion 130 can includes at least two ribs laterally separated from each other.
US 2021/0285710 A1 Sep. 16, 2021
6

4. The container of claim 3 , wherein the at least two ribs 13. The container of claim 1 , wherein the body is formed
of each of the first and second wheel retention portions by an injection molding process , and the first and second
longitudinally extend in parallel with each other . wheels are formed by the injection molding process or a
5. The container of claim 2 , wherein : blow molding process .
when the shaft of the first wheel is rotatably secured in the 14. The container of claim 1 , further comprising a lid
first wheel retention portion, an inner sidewall of a removably coupled to an opening of the body.
distal portion of the shaft of the first wheel abuts a 15. A container with an axle - less wheel assembly com
surface of an innermost rib of the first wheel retention prising:
portion so as to prevent the shaft of the first wheel from a substantially hollow body including a first wheel reten
exiting the first wheel retention portion , and tion portion formed at a position on a first side of the
when the shaft of the second wheel is rotatably secured in body and a second wheel retention portion formed at a
the second wheel retention portion, an inner sidewall of position corresponding to the position of the first wheel
a distal portion of the shaft of the second wheel abuts retention portion on a second side of the body opposite
a surface of an innermost rib of the second wheel the first side of the body; and
retention portion so as to prevent the shaft of the second a wheel assembly including
wheel from exiting the second wheel retention portion . an elongated first securing pin ,
6. The container of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of ribs a first wheel including a channel formed through a
of each of the first and second wheel retention portions center portion of the first wheel configured to receive
includes at least two longitudinally extending ribs and at the first securing pin,
least one laterally extending rib intersecting the at least two an elongated second securing pin , and
longitudinally extending ribs.
7. The container of claim 1 , wherein each shaft of the first a second wheel including a channel formed through a
and second wheels includes an angular ramp portion with center portion of the second wheel configured to
respect to a longitudinal axis of the shaft at distal ends of receive the second securing pin, wherein
each shaft of the first and second wheels . the first wheel is rotatably secured in the first wheel
8. The container of claim 7 , wherein the ramp portion of retention portion when the first securing pin is inserted
each shaft of the first and second wheels includes a first through the channel of the first wheel into the first
diameter at a proximal end thereof which is greater than a wheel retention portion,
second diameter at a distal end thereof. the second wheel is rotatably secured in the second wheel
9. The container of claim 1 , wherein each of the first and retention portion when the second securing pin is
second wheels includes a plurality of spokes radially extend inserted through the channel of the second wheel into
ing from the center portion of each of the first and second the second wheel retention portion , and
wheels . the first wheel is uncoupled to the second wheel such that
10. The container of claim 1 , wherein each shaft of the the first wheel and the second wheel operate indepen
first and second wheels includes a proximal portion, a dently from each other.
middle portion, and a distal portion, a diameter of the middle 16. The container of claim 15 , wherein the first and
portion being less than respective diameters of the proximal second securing pins include first and second locking tips ,
portion and the distal portion. respectively, disposed at a distal end thereof, the first and
11. The container of claim 10 , wherein the proximal second locking tips configured to securably engage with the
portion and the middle portion of each shaft of the first and first and second wheel retention portions, respectively .
second wheels are formed with surfaces parallel to a longi 17. The container of claim 16 , wherein each of the first
tudinal axis of the shaft, and the distal portion of each shaft and second locking tips includes a pair of compressible
of the first and second wheels is formed with an angular flanges .
surface with respect to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. 18. The container of claim 16 , wherein each of the first
12. The container of claim 10 , wherein : and second locking tips includes an indentation portion
configured to securably engage with an innermost longitu
the first wheel retention portion and the second wheel dinal rib of the first or second wheel retention portion .
retention portion each include two ribs having an 19. A wheel assembly for a container, the wheel assembly
aperture formed therein configured to receive the shaft comprising:
of the first wheel and the shaft of the second wheel,
respectively , a circular wheel having an outer surface and an inner
each of the two ribs of the first and second wheel retention surface ; and
portions longitudinally extend in parallel with each a shaft continuously formed with the wheel extending
other, and from a center portion of the inner surface of the wheel ,
when the first wheel and the second wheel are rotatably the shaft configured to be received in a wheel retention
secured in the first wheel retention portion and the portion of the container so as to rotatably secure the
second wheel retention portion, respectively, the wheel in the wheel retention portion of the container,
middle portion of each shaft of the first and second wherein the shaft includes a proximal portion , a middle
wheels is positioned substantially between each of the portion , and a distal portion, a diameter of the middle
two ribs of the first and second wheel retention por portion being less than respective diameters of the
tions . proximal portion and the distal portion .
US 2021/0285710 A1 Sep. 16 , 2021
7

20. A wheel assembly for a container, the wheel assembly

comprising:
an elongated securing pin ; and
a circular wheel including a channel formed through a
center portion thereof configured to receive the secur
ing pin ,
wherein the wheel is configured to be rotatably secured in
a wheel retention portion of the container when the
securing pin is inserted through the channel of the
wheel into the wheel retention portion of the container .
* * * *