We developed a consumer-oriented, solar-powered portable cooler using thermoelectric cooling (TEC) technology and the Peltier effect to actively cool contents without ice or external power. Our design addressed the need for a self-sufficient, portable refrigeration solution by integrating thermo-electric modules against insulated interior walls, with heat-dissipating fins and cooling fans on the hot side of the TEC plates to maintain optimal temperature gradients. Solar panels mounted on the lid charged an internal battery, enabling continuous cooling independent of direct sunlight.
Our prototype incorporated a user-facing temperature control panel and foam insulation to minimize energy demands while maintaining portability comparable to premium coolers. We used COMSOL Multiphysics to simulate heat transfer across candidate casing and insulation materials, then 3D-printed and assembled the final model to balance cooling capacity, user-focused design, and manufacturability. Although conventional refrigeration systems remain five times more efficient at large scales, thermoelectric cooling achieves competitive performance in miniaturized applications due to its simplicity, elimination of refrigerants, and minimal maintenance requirements.
We conducted performance testing against traditional ice-based coolers to evaluate cooling duration, temperature control, and cost-effective construction. Our proof of concept demonstrates commercial viability and represented a promising pathway toward sustainable refrigeration that combines active cooling with renewable energy, offering consumers an environmentally friendlier alternative with minimal recurring costs.